Instructors
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization, Makoto Taiko strives to connect and empower people of all backgrounds by advancing the practice of taiko with intention and sincerity. Makoto Taiko is dedicated to providing a high level of taiko instruction through weekly classes, workshops, and programs for kids, adults, and seniors for over 20 years. Makoto Taiko also offers youth leadership classes to empower the next generation through personal growth and development, interpersonal communication, goal setting strategies, time management styles, performance psychology, and relationship building.
Hunter Loyd, Artistic Director & Lead Instructor
Hunter began playing taiko in 2000 with Makoto Taiko. While studying Languages and Cultures with an Emphasis on Japanese at Cal State University of Northridge he introduced and taught popularized taiko styles to the collegiate group Jishin Taiko from 2007-2009. From 2010-2012 he lived in Japan and taught English while playing taiko with Hikari Daiko in Yamaguchi, Japan. He is currently teaching new kids classes and youth classes at Makoto Taiko.
Shoji is a Grammy-nominated musician, composer, and producer. He started playing taiko at the age of 8 and has played continuously since. As a founding member of On Ensemble and the group’s primary creative force, he produced On Ensemble’s critically acclaimed albums Dust and Sand, Ume in the Middle, and Bizarre Heroes. Shoji is sought after by groups throughout the taiko world for workshops, masterclasses, and compositions. His compositions for taiko are performed around the world.
Patrick started playing taiko in 2011 with CSUN Jishin taiko Ensemble until 2015. Simultaneously he was scouted to be part of a professional taiko theatre troupe called BATARE between the years 2014-2018. In 2016 he joined Makoto Taiko and became a junior instructor AI performer until his departure to the Army in 2018. Since his return to Makoto Taiko in 2020, he has been fully committed to the group. He also currently works as a Physical Education teacher for an elementary school in Inglewood and loves his teaching jobs there and for Makoto Taiko. It is his dream to one day perform taiko internationally and tour with a professional group.