Kodō in Los Angeles

Kodō is a Japanese taiko ensemble founded in 1981 and based on Sado Island. The group performs contemporary works rooted in traditional drumming, using taiko of several sizes alongside flute, shamisen, voice and dance. Its recordings include Ibuki and Mondo Head, the latter produced by Mickey Hart. Kodō made its debut at the Berlin Festival in 1981 and launched the One Earth Tour in 1984, establishing a touring program that has taken its ensemble productions to major theatres and concert halls worldwide. In 1988 the group began hosting Earth Celebration, an annual festival on Sado Island centered on its concerts and invited performers.