Ryo Shimamoto (嶋本 龍)
Born in Wakayama prefecture, Ryo Shimamoto first experienced taiko playing at the age of eleven. At sixteen, he began playing taiko with a local group, Shippu Uchi Taiko. For many years, he chose careers outside of taiko, but at the age of thirty-two Ryo decided to become a professional taiko player. Until his winning of first award, he studied with former Kodo player Katsuji Kondo, now his mentor. He now works as a full-time soloist and instructor. Shortly afterward, in 2011, he received the Outstanding Performance Award in the category of odaiko solo performance at Okaya International Taiko Festival. Currently, Ryo teaches taiko locally and internationally, in person and online. Has been an instructor for various workshops in Japan and outside of Japan. He also performs as a soloist all over Japan. His well-known composition Yui is performed by avid taiko players all over the world. Notable Prizes and Activities 2011 Mount Fuji Taiko Festival Solo Top Place, Received Outstanding Performance Award 2011 Okaya Taiko Festival International Odaiko Solo Competition 2nd place 2011 Taiko Festival in Kumagaya Odaiko Solo 2nd place 2012 Okaya International Taiko Festival Odaiko Solo Grand prize 2016 1st annual Eitetsu Hayashi Cup Taiko Composition Competition Check out my YouTube page! |