Koji Nakamura wrote Transformation through Taiko Drumming

KOJI NAKAMURA
Koji Nakamura is considered one of today’s foremost taiko artists.He was featured on Eugene Friesen’s CD, “Sono Miho”
and most recently on Paul Winter’s CD, “Crestone.” His work onthe later resulted in a Grammy Award in 2007.
Koji Nakamura can be heard on most of the Shumei Ensemble’s recordings.
His career began in 1982 as a member of Japan’s legendary Ondeko-za. In 1985 he became the first leader of the Shumei TaikoEnsemble. Starting with just three drums, three drummers, and two compositions, under his leadership the group evolved to oneof taiko’s preeminent groups.
Among his major artistic influences are Tagayasu Den of Ondekoza, who taught the importance of character and dedication, and the Shumei Ensemble’s artistic director, the flutist Meisho Tosha,
who revealed the sophistication and unlimited expression possiblewithin taiko. 
Primary among his influences was Shumei’s first taiko artist, Toshiro Ishida, who instilled in Mr. Nakamura the
belief that at heart taiko is a spiritual pursuit. He also believes that if taiko holds a purpose beyond pure enjoyment, it is to create harmony amongst people.  Koji moved to theUnited States in 2005 to help promote the art of taiko in NorthAmerica.
He now oversees a number of students, artists, and groups throughout the country.
Koji Nakamura
E-mail: koji3010@yahoo.co.jp
Phone: 626-584-8841 (office)
Website: www.makototaiko.org