Kokyo Taiko

"Taiko" is the Japanese word for drum. The music of the drum was used as part of religious ceremonies and during planting and harvesting festivals. The tradition of playing Taiko at festivals is still practiced in Japan today.

Kokyo Taiko was formed at the Buddhist Temple of Chicago in September, 1987 by a group of Sensei and others, who were interested in learning Taiko. The name, Kokyo, was suggested by the father of one of the founding members and means "Echo of the Lake".

The group's first sensei, or teacher, was Roxane Tono, whose basic philosophy regarding Taiko was "do the best you can, reach beyond what you think you can do and, most importantly, have fun while doing it". The "one mind-no mind" style instilled in the original members by Roxane continues to be a goal for today's members.

Kokyo Taiko is neither strictly Japanese Taiko, nor American drumming but the product of the collective and collaborative efforts of its individual members working together and drawing upon their Japanese and American traditions. Their pieces include songs taught to them by other taiko groups such as Kodo and Kinnara, as well as traditional and original pieces.

Kokyo Taiko has had the honor of performing for various festivals and celebrations held by various organizations in and outside of the Chicago area. Aside from these festivals and celebrations, they have also performed at private parties, weddings, and even a bar mitzvah! They have also taught Lane Technical High School's Japanese club taiko & O-bon dances for their school's International Days. Click here to see where Kokyo Taiko has performed.

"In-Residence" at the Buddhist Temple of Chicago
1151 W. Leland Ave.
Chicago, IL 60640
Tel.: 773-334-4661
Contact: Peggy Wallace

For questions about performances, performing for your event or area, or comments about Kokyo Taiko, please email kokyo@budtempchi.org.

Kokyo Taiko Website - Click Here

Kokyo Taiko on Facebook - Click Here