The Conversation

Taiko master prepares for anniversary concerts to celebrate 50 years

Hawaiʻi Public Radio | By Catherine Cruz

Published July 18, 2025 at 2:06 PM HST

1 of 5 — Kenny Endo

Kenny Endo is a performer, composer, and teacher of taiko.

Catherine Cruz / HPR

2 of 5 — Taiko Drums

Kenny Endo sets up for practice.

Catherine Cruz / HPR

3 of 5 — taiko drums

Taiko is a traditional Japanese-style of drumming

Catherine Cruz / HPR

4 of 5 — Taiko performers

Taiko drum performers practicing.

Catherine Cruz / HPR

5 of 5 — practicing taiko

Taiko performers practicing.

Catherine Cruz / HPR

This year, Kenny Endo marks five decades as a taiko drum master.

We caught up with him last week at a rehearsal for two upcoming taiko concerts in August to help celebrate the milestone. He reflected on those early days when he got bit by the taiko bug.

For more information about Endo's upcoming anniversary concerts in Honolulu, click here.

This story aired on The Conversation on July 18, 2025. The Conversation airs weekdays at 11 a.m.