Taiko Taikai 2023

Our very first Taikai was a whirlwind of emotions! Dozens of taiko practitioners from around the world submitted audition videos, (well, mostly in the US but one from Japan, so that’s something!) and the judges provided feedback. Their skills vastly improved from the time of their audition video to the time of their performance, which far exceeded what the judges were expecting, and confirmed that healthy competition naturally boosts self-development in a positive way!

Furthermore, the level of crowd support was a pleasant surprise! Being our first event, we were expecting perhaps a handful of people might come to watch the taikai. Instead, almost every seat was filled, and the audience bathed the performers with rousing cheer and support. The intense enthusiasm from the audience was both very unexpected, and confirmed just how important this event was for the taiko community!

Compulsory Piece: Narukami (Yoshikazu Fujimoto)

Judges:
1. Ringtaro Tateishi (Ondekoza & more)
2. Tiffany Tamaribuchi (Sacramento Taiko Dan & more)
3. Isaku Kageyama (Amanojaku & more)
4. Karen Falkenstrom (Odaiko Sonora & more)
5. Joe Small (Eitetsu Fu-Un no Kai & more)