Taiko
Kaz Mogi is an LA-based taiko powerhouse and percussionist who began drumming in 1994, eventually earning an associate’s degree in percussion performance from Musicians Institute in Hollywood and a bachelor’s in music education from Cal State Long Beach’s Bob Cole Conservatory.
A lifelong drummer, his passion ignited in middle school—thanks to a Metallica video—leading him through high school band and a decade-long tenure as Lakewood High’s drum coach. He later reconnected with his heritage through taiko, becoming a regular collaborator with ensembles like TAIKOPROJECT, Bataré, and East LA Taiko.
His impressive résumé includes performances with Coldplay (“Princess of China” video), the Battleship soundtrack, Grammy‑winning band Quetzal, and high-profile appearances on Netflix’s Avatar: The Last Airbender and the video game Ghost of Tsushima. In late 2024, he notably took center stage at the Game Awards, playing a 48‑inch odaiko in front of millions, marking a milestone that he describes as “rock‑star stuff.”
