ABOUT RHYTHMWORKS
Why Leading Companies Choose Rhythmworks for Team-Building
WHAT IS TAIKO?
Taiko drumming is an electrifying blend of rhythm, movement, and teamwork—a powerful way for teams to connect, align, and collaborate.
But what exactly is taiko?
Originating in Japan, taiko drumming has deep roots in ceremonial and festival traditions. Over time, it has evolved into a captivating performance art – featuring large drums, bold movements, and an unmistakably powerful sound. The experience of playing taiko as a group is visceral, dynamic, and life-affirming—making it an ideal tool for team-building.
Watch our explainer video:
WHO ARE RHYTHMWORKS?
At Rhythmworks, we bring teams together through the power of rhythm, focus, and collaboration.
Founded by Mark Alcock, who has spent over 30 years immersed in the world of taiko, Rhythmworks has transformed this ancient art into a unique, high-impact team-building experience.
With a deep respect for tradition, we distill the essence of taiko into its core ingredients – teamwork: commitment, awareness, support, trust and FUN!
That’s why world-leading organisations like Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, Shell, and Hitachi trust us to help unite their teams.
HOW DOES TAIKO EMPOWER TEAMS?
Every Rhythmworks team-building workshop starts with an exhilarating live demonstration, followed by a hands-on experience where participants learn, play, and perform together.
Through interactive group exercises, teams develop:
Clear communication – staying in sync under pressure
Collaboration – supporting each other to succeed
Confidence – tackling challenges with energy and commitment
Motivation – discovering the power of shared purpose
By the end of the session, teams perform a stunning, synchronised taiko piece – demonstrating the same key principles that drive success in the workplace.
More than just fun – it’s relevant. We highlight how the skills developed during the workshop can be applied back at work, helping teams stay focused, motivated, and aligned.
TRAINER PROFILE
MARK ALCOCK
Mark Alcock has dedicated his career to mastering and teaching Taiko. He trained in Japan with Tennon Daiko, learning from renowned drummers like Katsuji Kondo, former frontman of Kodo, and Chieko Kojima, legendary drummer and dancer also of Kodo.
Mark was an original member of Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers, and performed with Taiko master Joji Hirota before founding his own group Taiko Meantime in 2001 and Rhythmworks in 2000.
Mark’s passion is using Taiko to build strong, confident, and high-performing teams.
TRAINER PROFILE
JACK PAINTING
Jack brings a dynamic blend of music, performance, and martial arts to his Taiko teaching.
He graduated in Theatre & Film Studies and trained in kit drumming & music performance. He is a former kickboxer & member of the London Beefeaters Military Drum Corps.
Jack completed Taiko Meantime’s apprenticeship program in 2011 and has been an integral part of the group and Rhythmworks ever since.
TRAINER PROFILE
JAMES BARROW
A true pioneer of Taiko in the UK, James studied in Japan with Hiroshima Taiko Hozonkai and founded Akatsuki Daiko – Britain’s first regularly performing Taiko group – in 1990.
With decades of experience as a performer and teacher, James has played a vital role in bringing Taiko to the UK and inspiring the next generation of drummers.
