Ondekoza
The seminal 'demon drum group' that launched the modern taiko ensemble tradition and trained the players who later formed Kodo. Community taiko ensembles typically train weekly on nagado-daiko and shime-daiko, perform at local festivals, and teach beginners through open workshops.
Founded by Den Tagayasu on Sado; the original kumi-daiko pioneer; debuted internationally running the Boston Marathon then performing.
External page. Check current meetings, membership, and joining details directly with the group.
Other taiko drumming ensembles
Professional Sado Island ensemble that defines modern kumi-daiko on the world stage, touring with the One Earth Tour since the 1980s.
Nara-based touring ensemble known for athletic choreography and a theatrical, full-evening concert format. Community taiko ensembles typically train weekly on nagado-daiko and shime-daiko, perform at local festivals, and teach beginners through open workshops.
All-women professional ensemble whose fiery O-daiko playing helped open kumi-daiko to women as a profession. Community taiko ensembles typically train weekly on nagado-daiko and shime-daiko, perform at local festivals, and teach beginners through open workshops.
The original North American taiko dojo; trained generations of US players and seeded the Cherry Blossom Festival drum tradition. Community taiko ensembles typically train weekly on nagado-daiko and shime-daiko, perform at local festivals, and teach beginners through open workshops.
Temple-based ensemble founded by Rev. Masao Kodani that established the do-it-yourself Buddhist taiko model copied by dozens of US temples.
Long-running San Jose Japantown ensemble that helped codify Japanese American taiko as an art form distinct from Japanese tradition.