What is DRUM TAO? A Comprehensive Guide to Its History, Key Members, and Famous Performances
Nov 21,2025 Update
DRUM TAO is an entertainment group that captivates audiences worldwide with their contemporary expression of Japanese traditional drums (wadaiko). Their powerful performances delivered through rigorously trained bodies, combined with the sounds of shinobue (bamboo flute) and shamisen (three-stringed instrument), create spectacular stages. They have performed in 30 countries worldwide, with total audience attendance approaching 10 million people.
This article explains the history of DRUM TAO, their main members, popular performances and event information, and upcoming performance schedules.
Table of Contents
1. What is DRUM TAO
1-1. History of DRUM TAO [Also performed at the Osaka Expo]
2. Main Members of DRUM TAO
3. DRUM TAO's Event "TAO Summer Festival"
4. Upcoming Performance Schedule of DRUM TAO
Summary
1. What is DRUM TAO
DRUM TAO is a performance group that fuses powerful performances centered on wadaiko with theatrical arts. Their dynamic performances delivered through rigorously trained bodies possess a strength reminiscent of dance and acrobatics, overwhelming audiences.
Not only wadaiko, but also diverse expressions using traditional Japanese instruments such as shinobue, shamisen, and koto (Japanese harp) are their charm, building a unique worldview that fuses tradition with modern entertainment. They have performed numerous shows domestically and internationally, with total audience attendance approaching 10 million people. They are a representative Japanese performance group that attracts attention from around the world.
1-1. History of DRUM TAO [Also performed at the Osaka Expo]
DRUM TAO was formed in Aichi Prefecture in 1993 and relocated to Kuju-machi, Taketa City, Oita Prefecture in 1995. Starting with their success at the 2004 "Edinburgh Festival Fringe," they began full-scale world tours. Since then, they have succeeded in long-run performances in Germany and tours in Australia, Taiwan, North America, Saudi Arabia, and other countries, establishing international recognition by selling out all performances in New York Off-Broadway shows.
As of 2025, they have performed in 30 countries worldwide, with total audience attendance approaching 10 million people. Furthermore, in May 2025, they performed twice at the Osaka-Kansai Expo, once again demonstrating their presence as a representative Japanese performance group.
2. Main Members of DRUM TAO
Here are some of the members who support DRUM TAO. These are the main members, and many other unique members also support the group.
Name | Birthplace | Birthday | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
Nishi Arisa | Kagoshima | September 7 | Executive Director |
Aito Kiyoko | Fukuoka | November 26 | Leader |
Kishino Hiroaki | Tokyo | October 31 | Production Director |
Era Takuya | Kumamoto | October 18 | Artistic Director |
Takayama Masanori | Fukuoka | April 7 | Group Leader |
(Source: DRUM TAO Official Fan Club Site "MEMBER")
Nishi Arisa, who has long been active as "the face of TAO" and currently serves as Executive Director, continues to captivate audiences with her versatile performances ranging from graceful dance to powerful drumming. Many female members decided to join the group after being impressed by her performances.
Aito Kiyoko, who serves as the leader, takes the lead role in national and international tours, opening new musical horizons with the beautiful sounds of shinobue and her singing voice.
Production Director Kishino Hiroaki is a multi-talented individual who handles not only performances but also stage design, lighting, and sound, overwhelming audiences with his spirited performances.
Third-generation Group Leader Takayama Masanori combines overwhelming presence with wide-ranging talents, attracting attention as a next-generation leader with his compositions being performed domestically and internationally.
3. DRUM TAO's Event "TAO Summer Festival"
DRUM TAO holds their annual event "TAO Summer Festival" at their base, "TAO no Sato" in Kuju Plateau, Oita. This special summer festival features not only wadaiko performances but also food stalls, merchandise sales, and workshops taught directly by members, offering diverse content to enjoy. In 2025, the tour bus "Summer Festival Express" operated from Hakata Station in Fukuoka, making access convenient.
The TAO Summer Festival is planned mainly by the members, making it a special event where fans can feel closer to the members. The venue features food stalls with original menus devised by members and limited merchandise such as colorful T-shirts and hooded towels, offering projects full of TAO's unique charm. Not only can visitors enjoy performances, but they can also experience members' personalities through food and merchandise, making the summer festival's great appeal the closer connection between fans and members.
Note that "TAO Summer Festival 2025" has already concluded, but it is an anticipated event expected to continue in future years.
4. Upcoming Performance Schedule of DRUM TAO
DRUM TAO actively performs throughout Japan, captivating audiences with overwhelming performances every time. Below, please see the performance schedule for December and January 2026.
Summary
DRUM TAO is a Japanese entertainment group that fuses tradition with modernity through Japanese traditional instruments and performances. Their performances combining strength and beauty, and stages woven by the diverse personalities of members, have captivated audiences in 30 countries worldwide.
Annual events such as the "Summer Festival" are also well-received, delivering new appeal that fuses music with experience. Performances are scheduled throughout Japan from October 2025 onward, and their continuously evolving stages will continue to attract attention.
※This article was created based on information as of September 2025
