USC Kazan Taiko was founded in the fall of 2002 by Koichi Sanchez and Bridge Mei as the first Japanese taiko ensemble group at the University of Southern California. Our goal is to provide a place for our members to express themselves through rhythm and movement, while learning and participating in the tradition of Japanese taiko drumming.
Kazan performs at events hosted by our fellow Trojans as well as off-campus performances in the Greater Los Angeles area, in an effort to make taiko known to our campus and local communities. We are fortunate to have workshops with many talented and influential members of the Southern California taiko community, such as members of Kinnara Taiko and former apprentices of Kodo Taiko.
Outside of practices, our members love to have fun, explore diverse activities, and indulge their mutually shared addiction to food. We hold various social events throughout the year, including after-practice dinners, game nights, joint events with other USC organizations, and late-night karaoke. See photos on our Facebook page!