Odaiko New England

Brought together by the love of taiko, and the power of kumidaiko (ensemble Japanese drumming), the members of Odaiko New England seek to use the voice of the taiko to speak across the boundaries of race, class, culture and religion.

Odaiko New England (ONE) was founded in 1994, and began drumming in 1995. It is but one of a handful of taiko groups on the East Coast, and its members come from ethnically and culturally diverse backgrounds that reflect the rich cultural diversity of Massachusetts. ONE is a performing group that weaves the sounds and traditions of Japanese taiko with contemporary influences to create a constantly evolving and dynamic form. As a diverse group of individuals, we work together to exemplify the spirit of kumidaiko (ensemble drumming), by harmonizing our creative energy, as well as to develop a unique Asian American cultural voice. As our name suggests, we hope to drum as ONE voice, and to come together as ONE.