Japanese Taiko Drummers to Perform with MIHS Percussionists

Mercer Island, WA, May 18, 2026 – “CHIKIRI” featuring Ringtaro, Asako and Sohshun Tateishi will perform Japanese Taiko drumming at Mercer Island High School’s Performing Arts Center on June 3 from 7-8 p.m.  Admission is free.

This performance is the capstone of an eight-week artist-in-residence program for percussion students at MIHS. The performance will include the MIHS Percussion Ensemble playing two Taiko pieces arranged especially for the ensemble, and a special performance by CHIKIRI from The School of Taiko.

Taiko drumming is a mixture of activities including music, physical exercise and cultural experience combined to express human energy as performing arts. “Our time with Ringtaro and Asako has been very focused, valuable and exciting, and will lead us to a fantastic performance” said Parker Bixby, Director of Bands at Mercer island Schools.

Ringtaro Tateishi has over 10 years of experience performing in 26 countries with the world-renowned Taiko troupe Ondekoza including concerts in Carnegie Hall. After leaving Ondekoza, he performed daily at the Epcot center for seven years before coming to Seattle. For more information go to https://www.japancreativearts.com/

CHIKIRI means a butterfly joint used in woodworking to hold two pieces of wood together.  Similarly, this group’s performances join people, artists and cultures together from all over the world through the music.

The artist-in-residence program has been made possible by a grant from the Mercer Island Schools Foundation, MIHS PTSA and the MI Band Boosters.