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Gozō Daiko

Gozō Daiko (五蔵太鼓社中) is a Japanese taiko drumming ensemble based in Yoshii, now part of Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture. Founded in 1985, the group is named after Mount Gozōdake, a prominent peak in the region. The ensemble is recognized for its high-energy Kyūshū taiko style and community involvement, and has performed both domestically and internationally.

History

Gozō Daiko was formed in 1985, with its first public performance taking place the following year. In 1998, during its Yoshii-based years, the ensemble welcomed guest performers in local concerts. Among them was a Canadian teacher, Edmundo, who joined the group for a short period while working in Yoshii.¹ These cross-cultural collaborations highlighted the ensemble’s openness to international exchange even at the community level. In 2000, the group reorganized into its current form, often referred to as the “new” Gozō Daiko. The ensemble has been active in local festivals, weddings, and cultural events, averaging around sixty performances annually during the 1990s and early 2000s.²

Leadership and Membership

The ensemble has been directed by Takaharu Uchikawa, who emphasized a vigorous regional style of performance. The group has maintained both adult and youth divisions, including the Wakashishi (Young Lions) and a junior ensemble, encouraging intergenerational participation in taiko.³

Performance Style

Gozō Daiko is known for its distinctive Kyūshū-style taiko drumming, characterized by dynamic tempos, strong physical movement, and a layered instrumental texture. Their signature piece, “Hibiki” (響, “Resonance”), incorporates ō-daiko, chū-daiko, shime-daiko, ko-daiko, atarigane, bamboo clappers, and melodic instruments such as shinobue and shakuhachi.⁴

Venues and Appearances

The group frequently performs at venues in Sasebo and Nagasaki City, including large events such as Sasebo Kunchi and at the cultural complex AlcaS Sasebo. Internationally, Gozō Daiko has appeared in Okinawa, Dalian (China), Malaysia, and Busan (South Korea).⁵

Recognition

In 1991, Gozō Daiko received the Nagasaki Prefecture Cultural Award, highlighting its contribution to regional cultural life.⁶

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References

1. Oral recollection of guest performances in Yoshii, 1998 (including participation of Canadian teacher Edmundo); see also Michael Gould, “Gozō Daiko: A Japanese Taiko Ensemble,” Percussive Notes 34, no. 6 (December 1996): 54–57. PDF