Kyo Rei Taiko Kai was established in 1985.  We had attended the first Matsuri, and heard the Vista Buddhist Temple taiko group play.  Many of our children were inspired to play.  Vista had a workshop for us to teach us the basics and fundamentals of taiko.

We needed drums, and Vista instructed us on how to make our drums. After our drums were made, we practiced every Sunday morning. Our first performance was the 2nd annual Matsuri. Our group has been playing at Matsuri since that time. In addition to playing at Matsuri, we would play at various Asian events and elementary school’s cultural events.

Kyo Rei Taiko Kai means cooperation, hard work, and working together as one. While playing during practices and performances, the players listen to each other. Our performances and our pieces are orchestrated to promote the idea of being one. We are not individuals playing instruments, but the instruments are an extension of ourselves. We are individuals and drums who make up one whole.