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If you listen to the Trashmagination podcast, you know I creatively reuse trash. My other hobby is playing taiko, or Japanese drums. You wouldn’t think those hobbies would have any commonalities – but they do!

Fun Facts about Taiko and Creative Reuse:

• Most taiko built in North America are actually a great example of creative reuse.
• The Japanese word motannai means to regret waste and the word gomi means trash.
• You can make a practice taiko from a trash can.
• Both taiko and Trashmagination are built on the same value of interdependence.
• I first learned about taiko because of Trashmagination.

Motainnai Song by Nobuko Miyamoto and FandangObon

Taiko-themed Creative Reuse Crafts by Trashmagination

• a drum craft using recycled applesauce plastic cups
• a taiko player from plastic caps
• an okedo – or the type of drum you wear on a strap over your shoulder – from wine corks
• a tenugui – or the towel that you dance with at traditional Obon festivals

Trashmagination Checklist –  Recommendations of Activities to Try Based on this Episode

1. Try a new activity – Expand your happiness by continuing to try activities, even when you think you are old enough to be set in your ways.
2. Find a taiko performance near you – Spring and summer is a great time to find taiko as we participate in Cherry Blossom events in spring and Obon festivals in summer.
3. Find a group of people who want to chase a goal with you – It can be life-changing to be part of a group where everyone is motivated with the idea of doing something great.

My taiko group is Nen Daiko

• Check out our Performances page for shows, open houses and workshops.
• Follow Nen Daiko on Facebook
• Follow Nen Daiko on Instagram and use the hashtag #nendaiko if you take photos or videos of us.

Playing taiko with Nen Daiko – Photo by Bruce Guthrie

Show Details

• • Script for this podcast episode about taiko and creative reuse (not a transcript but gives the main ideas)
  • The Trashmagination podcast theme music is Kitchen from the Marian Circle Drum Brigade.