Editing Taiko (section)

===Form===
[[Kata]] is the posture and movement associated with taiko performance.{{sfn|Powell 2012a}}{{sfn|Tusler|2003|pp=73–74}} The notion is similar to that of kata in martial arts: for example, both traditions include the idea that the [[hara (tanden)|hara]] is the center of being.{{sfn|Powell 2012a}}{{sfn|Varian|2013|p=89}} Author Shawn Bender argues that kata is the primary feature that distinguishes different taiko groups from one another and is a key factor in judging the quality of performance.{{sfn|Bender|2012|p=10}} For this reason, many practice rooms intended for taiko contain mirrors to provide visual feedback to players.{{sfn|Bender|2012|p=122}} An important part of kata in taiko is keeping the body stabilized while performing and can be accomplished by keeping a wide, low stance with the legs, with the left knee bent over the toes and keeping the right leg straight.{{sfn|Powell 2012a}}{{sfn|Varian|2013|p=94}} It is important that the hips face the drum and the shoulders are relaxed.{{sfn|Varian|2013|p=94}} Some teachers note a tendency to rely on the upper body while playing and emphasize the importance of the holistic use of the body during performance.{{sfn|Bender|2005|p=201}}

Some groups in Japan, particularly those active in Tokyo, also emphasize the importance of the lively and spirited ''[[Iki (aesthetics)|iki]]'' aesthetic.{{sfn|Bender|2005|p=58}} In taiko, it refers to very specific kinds of movement while performing that evoke the sophistication stemming from the mercantile and artisan classes active during the [[Edo period]] (1603–1868).{{sfn|Bender|2005|p=58}}

[[File:Taikos bachi.jpg|thumb|right|''[[Bachi]]'' are sticks used specifically for taiko performance, and can be slightly thicker than typical [[drum sticks]].|alt=Different types of drum sticks for taiko, called bachi, are displayed flat on a surface.]]
The sticks for playing taiko are called ''[[bachi]]'', and are made in various sizes and from different kinds of wood such as [[Quercus alba|white oak]], [[bamboo]], and [[Japanese magnolia]].{{sfn|Varian|2013|p=59}} ''Bachi'' are also held in a number of different styles.{{sfn|Varian|2013|p=92}} In ''kumi-daiko'', it is common for a player to hold their sticks in a relaxed manner between the V-shape of the index finger and thumb, which points to the player.{{sfn|Varian|2013|p=92}} There are other grips that allow performers to play much more technically difficult rhythms, such as the ''shime'' grip, which is similar to a [[matched grip]]:  the ''bachi'' are gripped at the back end, and the [[fulcrum (drumming)|fulcrum]] rests between the performer's index finger and thumb, while the other fingers remain relaxed and slightly curled around the stick.<ref name=ModernP>{{cite journal|journal=Modern Percussionist|title=N/A|volume=3|year=1986|publisher=Modern Drummer Publications, Inc.|page=28|oclc=11672313}}</ref>

Performance in some groups is also guided by principles based on [[Zen Buddhism]].  For instance, among other concepts, the [[San Francisco Taiko Dojo]] is guided by {{nihongo4|''rei''|礼}} emphasizing communication, respect, and harmony.{{sfn|Wong|2004|p=84}} The way the ''bachi'' are held can also be significant; for some groups, ''bachi'' represent a spiritual link between the body and the sky.{{sfn|Powell 2012b|loc=''[https://books.google.com/books?id=gGlX7c66X1sC&q=%22Buddhism%22v Ki]''}} Some physical parts of taiko, like the drum body, its skin, and the tacks also hold symbolic significance in Buddhism.{{sfn|Powell 2012b|loc=''[https://books.google.com/books?id=gGlX7c66X1sC&q=%22Buddhism%22v Ki]''}}