Wadaiko Gouken is a Japanese drum troupe based in the Cincinnati and Dayton areas of Ohio. They practice, perform and teach the art of Japanese drumming. 

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Wadaiko Gouken was founded by Eddie Yates. Eddie trained and performed under sensei Daigoro Aska, leader of the Aska Gumi drum troupe in Nara, Japan. Aska Gumi is one of the top Japanese drum troupes in the world, and Eddie was the only westerner accepted to train and perform with them. 

 

Eddie decided to move back to his hometown in Cincinnati to begin teaching, create a performing group, and share the knowledge he gained while in Japan.  He has a vision to organize an environment where taiko (or wadaiko, as it's known in Japan) can be practiced and performed in the community around him. With over 25 years of performing, and with his extensive training in Japan, Eddie formed Wadaiko Gouken.

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For information on upcoming events, please visit our Facebook page.