Yoshikazu Fujimoto

Yoshikazu Fujimoto embarked on his artistic journey in 1972 when he joined the Sado no Kuni Ondekoza, a pioneering taiko ensemble. He became one of the founding members of Kodo when the group rebranded in 1981. Over the years, he has emerged as the principal O-daiko player, showcasing his talents in the exhilarating Yatai-bayashi performances. As the most senior member of Kodo, Fujimoto embodies the spirit of the ensemble’s name, “Children of the Drum,” deeply connecting with taiko music and performing with youthful enthusiasm.

In 1998, Fujimoto received the prestigious inka-no-sho, recognizing his mastery of the Onikenbai demon sword dance, a traditional art form preserved by Iwasaki Onikenbai in Kitakami, Iwate. Since 2007, he has been at the helm of the Iwasaki-den Sado Onikenbai dance group on Sado Island. His commitment to education is evident through his mentorship of Kodo apprentices and his numerous workshops open to the public.

Fujimoto frequently collaborates with Yoko Fujimoto in their taiko and vocal duo, “Ninin-Angya,” and has made guest appearances across Japan. In 2012, he was honored as a Kodo Distinguished Member and appointed a Cultural Envoy by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs, promoting wadaiko in China. Celebrating a remarkable 50-year career in 2018, he marked the occasion with a concert and published a commemorative book titled “Fujimoto Yoshikazu Taiko no Warabe Goju-nen” (Yoshikazu Fujimoto — Child of the Drum for 50 Years).