About Us

Hawaii Matsuri Taiko (HMT) was founded in 1984 by the late Faye Komagata and is one of Hawaii’s oldest and longest-running Japanese taiko ensembles performing year-round. For more than four decades, the group has captivated audiences with powerful performances that blend traditional and modern Japanese taiko music with original compositions reflecting both Japanese and Western cultural influences.

Through the pulsating rhythms and dynamic movements of taiko drumming, HMT generates an electrifying energy that resonates deeply with audiences. The group is also well known for its lively Bon Taiko performances during the summer festival season.

Hawaii Matsuri Taiko has performed throughout Hawaii, across the mainland United States, and internationally in Europe and Japan, and has appeared in numerous television specials and documentaries. The powerful and spirited performances of this multi-ethnic ensemble have contributed greatly to the popularization of taiko in Hawaii and beyond.

Today, Hawaii Matsuri Taiko continues to promote and preserve the art of taiko through performances, cultural programs, and workshops under the direction of Bishop Shuji Komagata and Jaymie Komagata.

Somei Taiko is based at the Soto Mission of Aiea in the heart of Aiea, Hawaii, and was founded in November 2005 by Bishop Shuji Komagata and Jaymie Komagata of Hawaii Matsuri Taiko.

Shuji Komagata began playing taiko in 1979 at the age of five and trained extensively in Hawaii, San Francisco, and Tokyo. He is formally recognized as a teacher of the Sukeroku style of taiko drumming. Jaymie Komagata also began playing taiko at a young age as a member of Hawaii Matsuri Taiko. Together, they established Somei Taiko to share the dynamic art of taiko with new generations of students.

Today, Somei Taiko includes more than 70 students of diverse backgrounds ranging in age from 5 years old to adults. The group focuses on teaching the fundamentals of taiko while cultivating discipline, teamwork, and spirited performance.

Through regular performances and community events, Somei Taiko continues to inspire students and audiences alike with the energy, tradition, and joy of taiko drumming.