An international phenomenon for four decades, Kodo explores the limitless possibilities of the traditional Japanese taiko drum, forging new directions for a vibrant living art form. With Tsuzumi, the company traces its origins back to its beginnings and reflects on its legacy.

In Japanese, the word “Kodo” holds a double meaning. It can be translated as “heartbeat,” the primal source of all rhythm. However, the group’s name is written with different characters, which mean “drum” and “child.” This reflects Kodo’s desire to play the drums with the simple heart of a child.

“Tsuzumi” takes its name and theme from the drama character, and “Warabe” from the child element. Tsuzumi opens with a very special piece in the ensemble’s history that is seldom performed on tour – Dyu-Ha. The late Maki Ishii, a modern composer who was introduced to Kodo by conductor Seiji Ozawa, presented this piece to Kodo as a gift to congratulate the ensemble on its debut in 1981. Kodo will perform Dyu-Ha on tour for the first time in North America since 1989. The program also features Ishii’s masterpiece Monochrome and other Kodo signature pieces such as O-daiko, Yatai-bayashi, and Zoku, coupled with new compositions. Join Kodo as they trace their group’s originals back to the beginning, to reflect on their history and reaffirm what has shaped Kodo today.