In Spring of 2004, Erin performed with UCSD Asayake Taiko in their debut performance. The adrenaline rush and rhythmic pounding of the drums was like none other, and from that point on… she was hooked. She continued to play with Asayake Taiko until 2006, and now plays with Naruwan Taiko aiming to promote cultural awareness to the San Diego community. Her musical background includes piano, flute, and she is currently picking up the ukulele.
James has been making music since he was a wee lad, starting at the tender age of 6 on piano and clarinet. He first learned about the art of taiko in college and was a member of Asayake Taiko based at UCSD. He now spends most of his time dreaming of new, inventive solos and hopes one day to compose his own piece!
Performer / Media Manager
Kari has a colorful musical history that includes years of piano lessons, singing, playing various percussion instruments, and a performance in Carnegie Hall. She began playing taiko in October 2007 and has since performed with both Naruwan and Togen Daiko. Kari is a music major at UCSD and is also the director of the DOTs, an all-female a cappella group on the UCSD campus.
Kotone has been playing taiko since August 2008 in Japan with Raijin Taiko.. She came to California in February and joined Naruwan Taiko around the month of April. She loves playing the piano, flute, and TAIKO! Right now she is in seventh grade. Hopefully she will continue playing the taiko drums forever!
Kristi joined Naruwan taiko to supplement her Taiko no Tatsujin (aka "Taiko Drum Master" playstation video game) skills. She is currently working on passing some 8 star oni songs. She is also practicing to become a Rock Band and Guitar Hero expert. Hajimaru don!
Former member of San Jose Junior Taiko, Kyle is attending SDSU for a degree in Kinesiology.
Instructor by day, taiko drummer by night. Tuyet is honored and thrilled to be performing with such an energetic and dynamic group. Born to play the shekere (or hyotan), "I'm having the time of my life." Yo-hup!