Provider Details

Provider: Mark H Rooney

Teaching Artist

Mark H Rooney studies, performs, and teaches taiko, a dynamic form of full-body drumming based in Japanese tradition. Mark combines this traditional foundation with a modern sensibility to create performances and classes that emphasize connection, reaction, and interaction. Based in the DC area, Mark’s credits as a performer and teacher span multiple continents and genres. He began his taiko career in Boston with Odaiko New England in 1998, serving as Artistic Director from 2008-2010, and architect/instructor of their widely successful classes and workshops. Mark toured Europe and the U.S. extensively as a member of Taikoza and performed with groups in Japan. He has also collaborated with artists including Tiger Okoshi, Opera unMet, UpRooted Dance, Arts on the Horizon, and ilyAIMY. Mark's high-energy style appeals to students of all ages, as is evidenced by his growing number of Mark H Rooney Taiko School students and his popularity as a guest artist in schools and communities.

Events and Programs Offered

An Introduction to Taiko, the Art of Japanese Drumming

This interactive program features the performance of both traditional and contemporary songs and rhythms and explores the instruments, the use of one’s voice in taiko, and a bit of history and Japanese vocabulary, as well. Performances include the chance for volunteers to get up and…
Program/Event Format: In School Performance
Art Forms: Music