Makoto Taiko

Makoto Taiko strives to connect and empower people of all backgrounds by advancing the practice of taiko with intention and sincerity.

Through precisely articulated rhythm and movements, Makoto Taiko’s drumming provides a spiritually powerful experience that, despite its Japanese origin, transcends cultures. The literal translation of makoto is “pure drum sound.” Additionally, its meaning can be interpreted as a state in which one’s actions are fully aligned with his or her thoughts and ideals. This is a discipline requiring sincerity, honesty, altruism, and integrity. Each performer strives to elevate their own spirituality along with that of each person in attendance by drumming with a sense of “Makoto.”

ANNUAL CONCERT 2025: Hishō

Makoto Taiko invites you to join us for our 2025 concert on Saturday, May 31, when we celebrate our 26th year of sharing the vibrant spirit and thunderous sounds of Taiko with the community. The show will take place at the Aratani Theatre in downtown Los Angeles.

Bearing the theme “Hishō,” the Japanese word for flight, our performance will represent both physical flight by showcasing our innovative style of playing, as well as the figural flight of our members, as they demonstrate the artistic growth they have achieved over the past year. 

Joining Makoto Taiko on stage will be Grammy-nominated musician, composer, and producer Shoji Kameda, and internationally renowned master of the katsugi okedo style, Eri Uchida. For the past three years, Eri, who will be traveling from Japan, has given wings to our own artistry and style through online instruction from Japan. Our concert will mark our first chance to perform together in person as she plays alongside our members in several pieces. 

The performance starts at 7 p.m. and will run approximately 90 minutes, plus intermission. Tickets are $22.00-45.00 (+$2.20-4.50 fee) and are available through makototaiko.org or the Aratani Theatre website at https://jaccc.org/events/makoto-taiko-2025-concert-hisho/. Sponsorship and advertising opportunities are also available.

CLASSES FOR ALL AGES

We offer affordable classes, ranging from beginner to advanced levels, on a weekly basis to our members. Membership to Makoto Taiko is open to the public. People find these classes personally meaningful for a variety of reasons. A portion of our members are Japanese Americans seeking an opportunity to connect with their heritage. Others are interested in learning about Japanese culture through this engaging art form. Our weekly classes support an average of 80 members ranging in age from 6 to 80 years and draw from communities throughout Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Our members experience great enjoyment and exposure to a Japanese cultural art that is steadily gaining popularity throughout the world. We have classes for adult beginners, adult intermediate/advanced, Kids ages 7-12, Youth ages 12-16 and Seniors (65+). If you are interested in taking a taiko class, please click on the button below:

Class Interest Form

CONNECTING WITH THE COMMUNITY

In 2017, Makoto Taiko formed a small group, called the Community Performing Group, to provide high quality performances at local community events. The fifteen members of this group also volunteer their time and talents to assist in teaching classes and lead member committees and other activities.

EDUCATION AND UPLIFT

Makoto Taiko began its outreach initiative in 2016 to partner with local educational institutions and community groups to host workshops, as a way to share taiko drumming with the broader community. The self-confidence that comes with striking a taiko drum, encouraging others on-stage through kiai (sending energy) and developing stage presence are elements that we want to instill in future generations. Past workshop participants have included local Girl Scout troops, Mirai Nihongo Gakuen at the Pasadena Japanese Cultural Institute, and John Muir High School Drum Section.