Kenny Endo

Judge

Taiko drummer/Composer

Kenny Endo is at the vanguard of the taiko genre, continuing to explore new possibilities for this ancient Japanese instrument. A performer, composer, and teacher, Kenny is a consummate artist, blending taiko with original music through collaborations with artists from around the world. He has toured in 40 States in the USA and in over 30 countries internationally. He recently received the United States Artists award, the Hompa Hongwanji Living Treasures of Hawaii award, the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii's, Sharing the Spirit of Aloha award, and the Japan-America Society of Hawaii's Bridge award. In 2025, Kenny will celebrate 50 years of his involvement in the art of taiko with several tours and special projects.