About

About

Our Story

Kizuna Taiko Arts began as a special project in celebration of the 20th Anniversary Concert of JSPACC (Japanese Speaking Parents Association of Children with Challenges) in 2013. What started as a one-time opportunity for children to experience Japanese taiko drumming evolved into a series of event-based taiko projects under JSPACC, bringing participants together to prepare for special performances whenever opportunities arose  (Read about the JSPACC 20th Anniversary Concert here.)

In 2020, Yuki Inoue officially assumed leadership of the program and developed it into a year-round taiko program designed to make Japanese taiko more accessible to youth who may benefit from a welcoming and supportive learning environment. 

After operating for several years as a program of LA Taiko Ichiza LLC, Kizuna Taiko Arts became an independent nonprofit organization in June 2026, allowing the program to continue growing while remaining true to its original mission.

Today, members from both JSPACC and the broader community come together to learn, perform, build friendships, and experience the joy of taiko.

Our Mission

Kizuna Taiko Arts expands access to Japanese taiko by providing welcoming and supportive learning opportunities where youth can express themselves, build confidence, develop meaningful friendships, and experience the joy of making music together. 

We believe every participant deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed in an environment that celebrates individual strengths while fostering teamwork, respect, and community.

Our Philosophy

Every participant's journey is different.

Some members find joy in performing before an audience. Others discover confidence simply by playing taiko, connecting with teammates, or trying something new.

Rather than expecting every participant to follow the same path, we work closely with each family to create an experience that reflects each individual's interests, goals, strengths, and support needs.

Success looks different for every person, and every achievement is worth celebrating.

Why "Kizuna"?

"Kizuna" (絆) is a Japanese word meaning the bonds and connections that bring people together.

It reflects the heart of our program: building meaningful relationships through music, mutual support, and shared experiences.

We believe that these connections extend beyond the rehearsal room—to families, volunteers, teachers, and the community that continues to support every participant's journey.

Meet Our Director

Yuki Inoue is the Founder and Director of Kizuna Taiko Arts.

Since 2013, she has been dedicated to helping youth of all abilities experience the joy of Japanese taiko by creating welcoming and supportive learning opportunities. 

Yuki believes that every child and young adult has unique strengths and potential. Through music, encouragement, and meaningful connections, she hopes to help each participant build confidence, discover new possibilities, and become an active member of the community.

In addition to leading Kizuna Taiko Arts, Yuki serves as the Artistic Director of LA Taiko Ichiza, where she has taught and performed Japanese taiko for many years.

Our Teaching Team

Our teaching team works together to create a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment where every participant can learn, grow, and enjoy taiko at their own pace.

The team includes the Director, assistant instructors, and a teaching assistant who share a commitment to making Japanese taiko accessible and meaningful for youth of all abilities.

To continually strengthen our program, our teaching team regularly learns from and consults with an occupational therapist. These ongoing conversations provide valuable professional perspectives that help inform our teaching approach and the continued development of our program.