Kristy “Aki” Oshiro (they/them) is a queer, trans, and non-binary, fourth-generation Japanese Okinawan-American professional taiko artist based in Sacramento and the San Francisco Bay Area. Aki began their taiko journey at age 9 with Kona Daifukuji Taiko in Kona, Hawai’i. From 2001 to 2007, they served as an instructor and touring ensemble member with Portland Taiko while earning a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance (Percussion) from Portland State University.
From 2007 to 2014, Aki was an instructor and youth programs director at Sacramento Taiko Dan. Currently, they are the founder and Artistic Director of Tsubaki Ensemble, SOKO Taiko, and Queer Taiko, as well as the Creative Director of Placer Ume Taiko. Aki also teaches at San Mateo Buddhist Temple Taiko and is a touring member of Taikoza and Unit Souzou.
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