That’s It LA had the immense pleasure of experiencing “Kodō One Earth Tour 2025: Warabe” at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in DTLA. Kodō is a professional taiko drumming troupe. Based on Sado Island, Japan, they have had a role in popularizing taiko drumming, both in Japan and abroad. They regularly tour Japan, Europe, and the United States. Kodo’s performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall was the 5th date on their North American Tour. In Japanese, the word “Kodo” holds a double meaning however this ensamble write it with different characters which mean “drum” and “child”. It can be translated as “heartbeat,” the primal source of all rhythm.
The Kodō drummers, playing various hand made drums of all sizes, wooden flutes and large xylophone bars, have refined their movements and music on the most spectacular scale! Some of the Kodō drums are BIG. That means a gigantic sound! The WDCH itself is an aesthetically pleasing structure- both acoustically and visually. Frank Geary’s architectural design and acoustician Yasuhisa Toyota’s innovative approach evoke a ship and sails “Wing On Wing”. The inside sound panels are made from Douglas Fir which absorbs and reflects sound similar to the body of the violin. We believe the Walt Disney Concert Hall is one of the best sounding venues with perfect acoustics. Kodō’s powerful and dynamic music produced rich layers of sound that reflected around the hall in a captivating and visceral way. You could hear the lightest drum strikes that all of sudden rose in the most powerful crashing soundwave experience! The combination of the melodic percussion, including steel drums, flutes and dance was powerful, playful and clever. This experience is astounding!
During the show, Kodō played through 2 sets of traditional Kodō compositions as well as highlighting some newer works. The piece “Inochi” was definitely a standout moment, where the audience watched a performer take on the o-daike (large drum).
Kodō’s musical works are a meld of traditional Japanese music and new and brilliant ideas. Each member goes through a rigorous 2 year training program on Sado Island in Japan. However, not all trainees make it to the main group.
Kodō musicians are trained, not just in usable drum and music techniques, but in all matters of body and spirit. Their goal is to find a harmonious balance between people and the natural world. The audience found joy and exhilaration with the synchronization of Kodō’s vibrant non-stop energy and explosive physical prowess. We are gracious to be able to witness such dedication, goodwill, and harmony between the most highly skilled drummers and dancers. Do not miss this experience!
Check out Kodō’s remaining tour schedule here.
Photo(s) by Elizabeth Asher, provided courtesy of the LA Phil.
Thank you to LA Phil for hosting our experience.
