Kazuyo Ito -Composer, choreographer, Japanese Taiko Drummer

Kazuyo Ito is a dedicated educator and visionary taiko artist based in Portland, Oregon. She teaches taiko drumming at schools, universities, and arts learning programs across the Portland area, including Portland State University. Trained by taiko masters Takemasa Ishikura and Jyotaro Yoshimura, Kazuyo brings deep cultural knowledge and decades of performance experience, including touring with Matsuriza in Florida.

As the founder and Artistic Director of enTaiko, Kazuyo is committed to building an inclusive taiko community that removes barriers of ability, language, and background. Her work reimagines taiko not just as a traditional art form, but as a space for connection, equity, and creative expression for all. She composes original music, develops choreography, and collaborates with artists across genres—engaging with Deaf and disabled performers, breakdancers, classical musicians, and youth from underrepresented communities.

With over 15 years of experience as a taiko educator and community leader, Kazuyo has produced groundbreaking concerts that center access, cultural integrity, and joyful participation. Her work continues to expand the possibilities of taiko, inviting people of all abilities and identities to share in the rhythm, power, and spirit of collective performance.

WORK SAMPLES

Kazuyo Ito Resume -Professional experience

Freelance Japanese taiko artist /ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF , enTaiko, Portland, OR
October 2004 – present

·              Lead and develop taiko residencies at local public elementary and middle schools.

·              Design and implement arts learning programs tailored for young audiences.

·              Oversee after-school taiko programs at Richmond elementary school.

·              Compose original works and collaborate with a wide range of artists (volunteer).

·              Write and manage grants to support innovative taiko projects.

·              Organize and direct annual taiko concerts, showcasing diverse artistic expressions.

·              Facilitate cultural exchange programs with Japan.

·              Handle day-to-day organizational tasks, ensuring smooth operations.

Individual work

·              Teach adult taiko classes at Portland State University

·              Compose new works for collaborative projects.

·              Perform taiko assemblies at schools to engage and educate students at schools

·       Continue to be a touring  member with Matsuriza, Orlando, FL

Taiko training by Jotaro Yoshimura, Nagoya, Japan
November 2003 – October 2004

·              Gained expertise in teaching and understanding taiko philosophy.

·              Studied Japanese flute and the broader aspects of the taiko industry.

Japanese drum performer, Matsuriza
Walt Disney world, Orlando, Fl
November 1996 – November 2003

·              Delivered daily performances of Japanese drumming for guests at Walt Disney world.

·              Conducted workshops and performances for low-income schools to promote taiko music.

·              Choreographed and directed new performance pieces with team members.

·              Trained new performers in taiko techniques and performance skills.

Taiko tour experience

·              Matsuriza touring member  (1996– Current)

·              Osaka, Japan fireworks festival international (2020)

·              Germany tour with Uzume Taiko (2008)

·              Us educational & performance tour with Portland taiko (2004–2007)

·              Us educational & performance tour with Somei Yoshino taiko ensemble (2005)