Yoshikazu Fujimoto

In 1972 Yoshikazu Fujimoto joined Sado no Kuni Ondekoza and when the group became Kodo in 1981 he was one of the founding members For many years he stood centerstage as the groups featured Odaiko player and centerman for the Yataibayashi climax He is presently Kodos most senior performing member Yoshikazu Fujimoto is the epitome of the ensembles name which means Children of the Drum he truly loves taiko and always hopes to play with the heart of a child In 1998 Fujimoto was recognized with the award of inkanosho proof of Dharma transmission for his proficiency in the demon sword dance Onikenbai upheld by Iwasaki Onikenbai in Kitakami Iwate Since 2007 he has been the dedicated head of Sado Islands demon sword dance group Iwasakiden Sado Onikenbai In recent years he has played a large role in educating Kodo apprentices and has also led numerous workshops for the general public He often makes guest appearances around Japan and performs with Yoko Fujimoto in their song and taiko duo NininAngya He became a Kodo Distinguished Member in 2012 and that same year was appointed by Japans Agency for Cultural Affairs to be a Cultural Envoy teaching wadaiko in China In 2018 Fujimoto celebrated the 50th anniversary of his performance career marking this milestone with a concert and a commemorative book with a common title Fujimoto Yoshikazu Taiko no Warabe Gojunen Yoshikazu Fujimoto Child of the Drum for 50 Years