Honolulu, HI — 2025 marks a major milestone for internationally renowned taiko artist Kenny Endo: 50 years of bringing the powerful, transformative sound of taiko to audiences in Hawai‘i, across the U.S. continent, and around the world.
To honor this golden anniversary, Taiko Arts Center of the Pacific, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, will present a weeklong celebration from August 9–15, 2025, in Honolulu, Hawai‘i.
The festivities will feature a dynamic lineup of events, including: Two distinct concerts showcasing the diversity and energy of taiko; Hands-on workshops led by world-class taiko instructors; Cultural presentations offering deeper insight into the art and history of taiko; The U.S. premiere of Healing Beats, a documentary by Spanish filmmaker Iván Muñoz Ureta that explores the global impact of taiko drumming.
All events will be held on the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa campus, with concerts taking place at the Kennedy Theatre, workshops and cultural presentations at the UH Music Department.
The documentary screening will be hosted at the Doris Duke Theatre at the Honolulu Museum of Art.
Endo made an indelible mark on Hawai‘i when he introduced his Tokyo-style taiko drumming to the islands. His unforgettable performance at First Night Honolulu in 1990 sent thunderous waves of excitement through the downtown celebration, amplifying the spirit of New Year’s fireworks with the powerful rhythms of taiko.
Since that landmark moment, Endo has inspired and entertained local and international audiences, teaching youth and adults across all Hawaiian islands and throughout the mainland U.S., while collaborating with artists from around the world.
His remarkable career includes performances for the late Michael Jackson, Prince (formerly known as The Artist), Prince Charles and Princess Diana, opening for The Who at the Blaisdell Center, dueting with Bobby McFerrin, and solo appearances with prestigious orchestras such as the Honolulu Symphony, the Hong Kong Philharmonic, and the Stanford Symphony.
As an Ambassador of Japanese Culture for the Japan Foundation, Endo has also carried the spirit of taiko to audiences throughout Central America and beyond.
Endo’s accolades are as impressive as his performances. He was the first non-Japanese national to receive a natori (stage name and master’s license) in classical Japanese drumming.
His honors include Certificates of Recognition from both the Hawai‘i State Legislature and Honolulu City Council, the Bridge Award from the Japan-America Society of Hawai‘i, the Spirit of Aloha Award from the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai‘i, Hompa Hongwanji’s Living Treasure of Hawai‘i Award, and the prestigious U.S. Artists Fellowship.
Throughout his five decades in taiko, Endo has been a master of collaboration, weaving together musicians and artists from a wide range of genres and traditions.
Guided by his philosophy that “Tradition is the Basis of Innovation” and that “Taiko can be a Way which Bridges Cultures and Fosters Peace,” Endo has used his art to unite people across cultures and generations, building community through rhythm and spirit.
For more information, registration details, and ticketing, please visit: kennyendo50.com
