What is TAPS?
    "My mission is to share the technical skills, knowledge, and experience I have gained as a percussionist with all percussion players and the next generation of students, empowering them to fully harness the power of music as a means of self-expression."

Ted Atkatz, former Principal Percussionist of the world-renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra, founded the Ted Atkatz Percussion Seminar (TAPS) in 2015 in Los Angeles, California. Drawing from his vast and invaluable experience on the world stage, the seminar provides world-class music education that goes beyond mere playing techniques to cover musical philosophy and career development.

TAPS carries forward the technical mastery and educational philosophy of the late Alan Abel (former percussionist of the Philadelphia Orchestra), who was one of the most influential mentors and pillars of support in Ted's musical life, and the man who laid the foundation for American orchestral percussion education in the late 20th century. Through TAPS, Ted continues his mission to pass down traditional orchestral percussion techniques, expression, and artistry to the next generation.

TAPS Tokyo is a three-day seminar designed to teach more than just technique. Participants will immerse themselves in the cherished traditions and practical know-how of orchestral percussion, while experiencing the mindset and artistry required of professional musicians.

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Through masterclasses, open lessons, lectures, and mock auditions, students will learn world-class performance techniques and musical traditions directly from top-tier artists through both instruction and live demonstrations. TAPS regularly hosts seminars and music camps across the United States and has been actively expanding its educational outreach globally, including a highly successful seminar in Seoul, South Korea, in 2025.

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Who Should Attend
    - Anyone wishing to seriously study orchestral percussion
    - Those looking to improve their audition preparation skills
    - Percussionists aiming to elevate their overall playing technique
    - Students and players wanting direct instruction from top-tier international artists
    - Instructors seeking fresh perspectives and new teaching methodologies
    - Students aspiring to become professional players, as well as lifelong music enthusiasts

FACULTY
Ted Atkatz
    - Founder and Director of TAPS
    - Former Principal Percussionist and Timpanist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
    - Chair of Percussion at the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music (California State University, Long Beach) and the Colburn Conservatory of Music
    - Director of the Colburn Contemporary Music Ensemble
    - Profile: Ted Atkatz Faculty Profile

Joel Biedrzycki
    - Principal Timpanist/Percussionist of the Nagoya Philharmonic Orchestra
    - Former Adjunct Lecturer at Nagoya University of the Arts
    - Endorsed Artist for TAMA Drums, Koide Cymbals (Japan), and JGPercussion
    - Profile: Joel Biedrzycki Profile

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Kunihiko Komori

    - Marimba Faculty at Aichi University of the Arts

    - Endorsed Artist for Adams Musical Instruments, and Pearl Drums

    - Profile: Kunihiko Komori Profile

Dates & Venue
  Dates: Friday, August 21 – Sunday, August 23, 2026 (3-day event)
  Venue: Shofuku-ji Temple: Music Studio (Main Temple, Basement 1st Floor)
  Address: 4-6-1 Noguchicho, Higashimurayama-shi, Tokyo
  Nearest Station: Approx. a 15-minute walk from the West Exit of Higashimurayama Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line).
  Parking: Parking is available on-site (approx. 40 spaces). Free of charge for seminar participants during the event.
  Venue Access: Shofuku-ji Access Guide

Seminar Overview (The seminar will be conducted in English with consecutive Japanese interpretation.)
    - Instrument-Specific Techniques & Knowledge: Snare drum, timpani, bass drum, cymbals, and accessories (tambourine, triangle, etc.)
    - Orchestral Audition Preparation
    - Mental Approach: Strategies for peak performance under pressure
    - Percussion Ensemble: Rehearsal and performance
    - Masterclasses, Q&A Sessions, and more
    - Mock Audition: Scheduled for August 23. (Private event; open only to Full Participant course registrants)

Prizes & Perks
    Audition Prizes: Provided by our sponsors, including:
        Zildjian Cymbals
        Majestic Percussion Snare Drum
        Black Swamp Tambourine
        Luft Tambourine, and more.

*All Seminar Participants: Will receive two pairs of Vic Firth Ted Atkatz Signature Drumsticks (approx. $50 USD value).

COURSES & FEES
Full Participant Course
    Eligibility: Ages 16–45
    Includes: Access to all classes and eligibility to participate in the Mock Audition.

Registration Period          Registration Fee 
By July 1                           ¥75,000 (Super Early Bird Special)
July 2 – August 1              ¥90,000 (Early Bird Special)
From August 2 onward    ¥100,000 (Standard Price)
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Auditor Course
    Eligibility: No age or experience requirements. Open to active performers, teachers, students, and amateurs.
    Includes: Access to audit all classes except for the Mock Audition.

Participation       Registration Fee
3-Day Pass         ¥60,000
1-Day Pass          ¥25,000 / day
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Accommodations
For participants requiring lodging, the seminar office can assist with booking the following hotel:
    Hotel: Toyoko INN Tokorozawa Station West Exit (Tentative)
    Room Type: Non-smoking, single room (includes breakfast)
    Rate: ¥9,800 per night
    Booking Deadline through TAPS: July 1, 2026

[NOTE!]
    Rooms are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you would like to request accommodation, please contact the seminar office as soon as possible at tapstokyo@gmail.com (English and Japanese support available). All questions go to the distinguished Midori Osato.