Peaceful Forest Taiko Ensemble Joins CVSO for Maestro’s Finale Concert

Peaceful Forest Taiko Ensemble

Maestro’s Finale: Conductor Nobuyoshi Yasuda’s Farewell Concert
Saturday, May 9 at 7:00 p.m.

The Chippewa Valley Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to welcome a truly dynamic guest to the stage this spring. On May 9, Peaceful Forest—a family taiko drumming ensemble led by internationally acclaimed artist Takumi Kato—will join the orchestra for a powerful performance of Yuzo Toyama’s Rhapsody for Orchestra.

Peaceful Forest brings together the energy, precision, and spirit of traditional Japanese taiko drumming in a way that is both deeply rooted in culture and thrillingly immediate. Leader Takumi Kato, who has earned top honors at international taiko competitions and performed four times before the Emperor of Japan, performs in the ensemble with his three sons. Together, they tour across the United States, sharing music that emphasizes peace, cultural exchange, and human connection.

This collaboration offers a rare opportunity to experience Rhapsody for Orchestra as it was meant to be heard—infused with the colors of Japanese folk music and the distinctive character of taiko.

Join us on May 9 for Maestro’s Finale, as we say goodbye to Conductor and Music Director Nobuyoshi Yasuda and honor his native country of Japan.