About Us

Taiko for Everyone!

Akaoni Daiko is a community taiko group based out of the Valley Japanese Community Center in Sun Valley California. We regularly perform at various events, festivals and parties throughout southern California and internationally! We have weekly taiko drumming classes as well as mobile taiko workshops at schools and recreation centers, and all are welcome. Taiko drumming is a beautiful and exciting Japanese art form and our drumming classes are open to everyone of any age, gender, race or nationality. We are dedicated to sharing Taiko in a fun and healthy way, while respecting the cultural and historic Japanese roots and traditions.

About the Sensei

Michael Naishtut received a BS degree in theatre from the State University of NY in Oneonta and has pursued a career as a professional actor performing in the NY and Florida Shakespeare festivals as well as in a comedy and music show at EPCOT center in Disney World, until he had the opportunity to go to Japan. Michael lived in Japan for 20 years studying taiko, theatre, karate and other performing arts. He was regularly seen on television and in major theatres throughout the country. Michael’s first experience playing taiko was in the Kodo Juku intensive workshop on Sado Island taught by Katsuji Kondo. Michael continued his taiko training in Ryogoku, Tokyo (home of Sumo) under former Sukeroku member and leader of Wakon, taiko master Miyauchi Yukihiro. Michael studied with Miyauchi sensei for over 10 years and is a founding member of both Waraku Daiko and Akaoni Daiko. He has performed at the Kodo Earth Celebration fringe stage annually for 10 years. In addition he has performed taiko at the Narita Temple Taiko festival, Toshimaen Amusement park, Gonpachi Restaurant, Little Tokyo Japanese American museum, OC Japan Fair, SoCal Anime Con, and for various weddings, parties, school events and even at the Hollywood Haunted Hayride. Michael believes that learning and improving taiko understanding and skills, is a lifelong pursuit. To further his understanding and skills in taiko, Michael has trained with other amazing teachers like Art Lee of Tokara, John Yost of Rhythm Revolution, Shoji Kameda from Makoto Taiko as well as Yuta Kato and Masa Miyano of Unit One from Asano Taiko US. Michael is also one of the main drummers for the Shaolin Entertainment groups’ Chinese Lion Dance, performing at many Lunar New Years events, parties and celebrations including playing for actor James Hong receiving his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.