Waipahu Taiyoji Taiko was founded in 2019 by Ikuko Ishii at Waipahu Soto Zen Temple Taiyoji.
The group performs at temple events such as New Year’s celebrations and Obon services, as well as at community festivals and cultural gatherings throughout Hawaiʻi.
Through the powerful and joyful art of taiko drumming, Waipahu Taiyoji Taiko aims to share and celebrate Japanese culture while building bridges across cultures through music.
Ikuko Ishii has studied taiko under many respected teachers and groups, including Hawaii Matsuri Taiko (under Faye Komagata), Somei Taiko (Shuji Komagata), Manoa Taiko (Mike Gonhata), Ryugen Taiko (Nolan Miyahara), Nihon Taiko Dojo (Saori Maeda), and Taikoza (Marco Lienhard).
Through learning from many masters of taiko, she brings a rich diversity of styles, discipline, and spirit to Waipahu Taiyoji Taiko.
Waipahu Soto Zen Temple Taiyoji 