Kenny Endo

Born April 2, 1953, in Los Angeles to Japanese American parents, Kenny Endo is a pioneering taiko master, composer, performer, and educator. Initially a jazz drummer, he was inspired by a San Francisco Taiko Dojo performance in 1973 and began studying kumidaiko. He joined Kinnara Taiko, later moved to Japan for a decade of classical training, and became the first non‑Japanese recipient of a natori in hogaku hayashi classical taiko. He leads the Taiko Center of the Pacific, has released acclaimed recordings and toured worldwide blending Japanese tradition with jazz, funk, Afro‑Cuban and Hawaiian rhythms. He has received multiple awards, including Hawaii’s Living Treasures honor.