Playing Positions

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Playing Positions

Disclaimer: I am not an expert at playing katsugi. You can find photos on the Internet of hot players that will demonstarte to you the proper techniques and kata. But, if you haven't been exposed much to katsugi playing, I can get you started.

Basic One-hand Position
At left is the basic one-hand technique for playing a katsugi. This is the most common way, seen in festivals and parades. You can control the drum with your left hand while you move.

The drum is on the left side, with the strap over the right shoulder. The height shown is typical, sometimes a little lower or higher. It's all up to preference and fashion (much like rock guitarists). You might wear it higher if you will be walking a lot.

Two-hand Position
At left you can see the two-hand technique. This is mainly used for faster rhythms, when the tempo is too fast for one-handed play. Also use this when you want to do some cross-sticking (see below).

The left hand has an inverted grip. This takes a while to get used to. Playing evenly with both hands is the main beginner's challenge.

You'll notice that my left fingers are clutching the stick in two different ways. I've seen both methods used.

Moving
Katsugi players move about the stage with a graceful style. Here, I'm attempting to imitate it. Just imagine I look graceful and composed. Like all taiko performances, these moves are very deliberate and artistic. Form is critical.

There are some nice images of Leonard Eto, one of the pioneers of modern katsugi style, demonstrating playing stances in his Leo CD package.

Cross-sticking
Young Japanese katsugi players aspire to hot-dogging their katsugi, not unlike a rock guitarists adding flash to their performances.

Cross-sticking developed from Korean changgo playing, reportedly by members of Kodo in the late '80s. The player strikes both heads—alternately usually—by crossing the left hand from the front to back head.

Support the drum across your bent knees so that the drum is square in front of you. Start by playing slowly and striking the front (right) head with your right stick, then front head with your left stick. Then, swing your left hand over the top of the drum to the back, where you strike the back head. Then right front, left front, right front, left back, right front, left front, right front, left back,etc. Speed up until you can't go any faster, or you break a drumhead.