Roy & PJ Hirabayashi

The founders of San Jose Taiko, Roy and PJ Hirabayashi have helped to create a new Asian-American art form by infusing the traditional rhythms of Japanese drumming with musical and cultural influences from around the world.

As post-World War II baby boomers and third-generation Japanese Americans growing up in the San Francisco Bay area, the Hirabayashis were looking for outlets to express their cultural identity, when they discovered taiko, a form of drumming. This was the beginning of San Jose Taiko, created in the heart of San Jose Japantown in 1973.

San Jose Taiko’s performances feature visual elements and choreography requiring physical strength, endurance, and energy. Members of the group participate in composing, choreographing, designing and fabricating costumes, and handcrafting the drums. This collective effort produces a performance that highlights group unity and purpose.

In 1987, San Jose Taiko became one of the first American taiko ensembles invited to tour Japan. They have performed in a wide range of venues, from small community centers and schools to Carnegie Hall. When San Jose Taiko was founded, only a few taiko organizations existed in the United States; today, there are hundreds, with San Jose Taiko as one of the nation’s leaders. As composers and performers, the Hirabayashis have maintained a respect for cultural tradition, while moving the taiko art form forward through innovation; collaboration; and outstanding performance, training, and education programs.