Seishun Taiko
ABOUT SEISHUN TAIKO
Our Mission
Cultivating community and connections through the spirit of taiko.
Seishun Taiko was born out of a desire to connect the modern world with the traditions of the past. Starting in September of 2022, Seishun Taiko began as an idea and manifested into what it is today. Seishun Taiko serves as a symbol of connections. "青春" (Seishun) in Japanese translates to "youth" or "youthful times", which bridges the group's focus to reflect the group through its energetic performances and the spirit of the youthful individuals that compile the group.
Our Story
A Closer Look at the Beginning
In September of 2022, Erin Hayashida, Maya Shimizu, and Kellie Yada came together with the idea of a collegiate taiko group that would be open to all. With the guidance and support from several members of Orange County Buddhist Church's Daion Taiko, their idea became a reality.
The first year of Seishun Taiko began with internal directors, Erin Hayashida and Kellie Yada, as well as external director, Maya Shimizu. The three worked together to develop Seishun Taiko from the ground up. Their efforts produced a group filled with lifelong friendships and everlasting memories, all while honoring the traditions of taiko.
Our Values
Seishun Taiko maintains the relevance of Japanese culture, respecting the traditions of the generations that existed before us. We honor the art of taiko by providing a creative outlet for individuals to develop artistic skills and bring visions to life. We aim to pay it forward to those who support us. We look for ways to repay the community that has established and provided for us through their trailblazing. By providing a space for anyone to build long-lasting relations with, we have created a family amongst each other.