Coming Soon
Founded in 2009, The School of TAIKO is a premiere educational and artistic institution dedicated to fostering cultural connection through the discipline of Japanese Taiko Drumming and Japanese Arts, Music and Culture. Under the umbrella of Japan Creative Arts, the organization operates the professional ensemble CHIKIRI, a community school serving over 400 students annually, and extensive educational outreach.
The founders bring world-class expertise to the Pacific Northwest. Ringtaro Tateishi – Artistic Director, a Taiko master with 37 years of experience and a veteran of the world-renowned group ONDEKOZA, famously completed the legendary U.S. Running Tour, a monumental feat where he ran through 49 states while performing Taiko across the nation. Co-founder Asako Tateishi – Executive/Creative Director, a former Disney International Artist, also brings a sophisticated background as a professional MC and announcer for major motorcycle racing circuits (such as Suzuka and Motegi) and an expert event planner in Japan. Her production expertise seamlessly blends traditional craft with high-stakes event excellence.
Their high-energy performances are frequently featured at major sports and community milestones, including opening for the Seattle Mariners, halftime shows for the Seattle Storm (WNBA) and Seattle Seawolves (MLR), and the iconic Northwest Folklife Festival. Since 2014, they have also produced the Bellevue World Taiko Festival, bridging world-class artists with the local community.
In PNB’s production of Momotaro, The School of TAIKO’s Youth Ensemble will perform original compositions by Ringtaro Tateishi, bringing the thunderous vitality of Taiko to the ballet stage.