Life of a Japanese Drummer | The KODŌ Story ★ ONLY in JAPAN

[@cristinesatolamontagne7319]

From a former apprentice (2006-2007, 25th class), thank you so much for making this video! When I lived on Sado, I didn't have access to a camera, phone, internet, etc. so a video like this is so meaningful to me. Kodo truly is a magnificent village of artists who live a unique and treasured way of life, and Earth Celebration is beyond magical in so many ways. I am excited to share this video.

[@vbart1776]

Cristine Sato LaMontagne thanks. Are you allowed a family life

[@sujoyteslesl]

Hey, Christine. I thought the whole concept of being an apprentice was the most intriguing thing about this video. It seems like John was able to generously cover some of the basics about the apprenticeship, but it left me wanting to know more about it. Good on you for taking on such a unique challenge. What a great chapter to write into anybody's life. All the best. Stay safe.

[@MartyDittmar]

🙌

[@onlyinjapan]

@@sujoyteslesl I did not have access to the apprentice area unfortunately. I asked but ... in January, they'd just had graduation and many apprentices were cut. It's a gutting experience to fail after 2 years of work. I wish I had had that angle to cover more. You have to be under 25 to become an apprentice and it's the only way to become a member. Those that make it really appreciate it a great deal knowing what other members had to go through to get in. Those that didn't, though hurt, go on so much stronger in life than before they started. Leo mentions making rice - he meant GROWING it from start to finish. That point was so clear. Thanks for asking about more info. If you're interested, I believe anyone under 25 can apply and info in on the kodo website.

[@sujoyteslesl]

@@onlyinjapan you know, you may have just inadvertently written up a great addendum for this video that you may text to include in a director's cut of sorts. Once again, thoroughly enjoyed the video. There is lots of rewatch value in this.

[@thecheekychinaman6713]

You can definitely sense how John's work is shifting from a subjective travel vlog approach into a more objective, documentary style. Loving it, he wasn't kidding when he said this new channel was going to bring it! Off topic John, how do you brainstorm your ideas, and how many ideas get left on the cutting board?

[@onlyinjapan]

TheCheekyChinaman ♾ infinite! ＼＼\\٩( 'ω' )و //／／

[@tommyherber9767]

the video certainly has a documentary style. And i think videos like this, are always compared to NKH Beginn Japanology, in that comparison Johns Videos have a different focus, more on people and their emotions and less historical.

[@sharangbhattacharya6401]

@@tommyherber9767 Very true. (Just telling) it is Japanology plus

[@sharangbhattacharya6401]

@@HerkNewz69 Oh well didn't know that. I thought he was referring to Japanology plus.

[@mr.o8539]

I love his voice and presentation! He has that japanese documentary aesthetic down to a dot.

[@TokyoLlama]

Fantastic video, John. Definitely keen to go to earth celebration and see Kodo in person.

[@sp1976]

Very well put together. Keep up the fantastic work John!!!

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Thank you Irvan! It's nice to release another episode!

[@JessyWinNguyen]

Agreed! The drone footage is beautiful!!

[@stationplaza4631]

They are the very definition of physical as well as mental fitness.

[@cherrydragon3120]

Military personal could probably learn a few things from these people

[@Kealiile]

I was just watching “cobra kai” on netflix and couldnt get over how much daniel looked like john! “ karate kid”

[@onlyinjapan]

Daniel LaRusso certainly didn't learn patience - he's still a hot head without balance! LOL

[@narcisacaimol4138]

Exactly he's so look alike of Ralph Macchio💖

[@NocturnEternal]

The first time I learned of Kodo was 1998 when one of my favorite thrash metal bands, Sepultura, collaborated with them for their album “Against”. I’m just amazed at what I have learned about them. Please listen to “Kamaitachi” by Sepultura. It’s instrumental and frankly, no vocals were really needed for that track. Thank you John. This was worth being woken up for.

[@onlyinjapan]

Woah! I don;t know about all their collabs! This is great - thanks for letting me know. The mix of metal and drums, flute is amazing! Deep - powerful.

[@OllamhDrab]

See, they can even bring punks and metalheads together. :) *tease.* :)

[@NocturnEternal]

OllamhDrab 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@NocturnEternal]

John Daub * ONLY in JAPAN You’re welcome John!

[@sometimeswegoplaces]

Beautiful story of discipline and music. They are the heart of Sado Island.

[@cherrydragon3120]

Music is the very core of emotion and expression. The very nature of humanity.

[@matthiasbutz517]

They really dedicate themselves to their art, amazing skills!

[@czarodzi9967]

The degree of discipline of the members is amazing! Thanks for the opportunity to see them behind the scenes.

[@markusmottus1686]

This needs to be more promoted because their way of life is something we all need in one way or another! Thank you John for bringing this to us!🇯🇵❤

[@onlyinjapan]

Markus Möttus we can learn a lot from Kodo. Over the years, they’ve learned a lot from their travels too. I live their mission of bringing us all together. Thank you Markus!

[@markusmottus1686]

@@onlyinjapan An honourable mission, together we are strong! Keep it up!💪

[@CaiqueBrite]

"amazing" isn't describing the quality and emotion of your videos anymore, John. I need to learn a new hyper amazing word for them.

[@joeysu7591]

When you put art, passion & discipline in one, you'll gain contentment and happiness. Thank you so much for this, John. Much appreciated. 👍👍👍 🥁🥁🥁💕🎊

[@OmegaKatanaXIII]

man I allways love these documentary videos they are professionally made to the point they can be a program for nhk world.

[@LouTheLoo]

Once again, thank you for making such quality content, John! ありがとうございます。

[@michaelsasano8622]

John... John... John. Amazing my brother! Totally loved this and the editing is superb! I'm going to share this with my niece. She's in a Taiko Drumming group here on Oahu and she'll appreciate seeing the dedication and how drummers practice and train. Thank you for sharing this!

[@onlyinjapan]

Michael Sasano aloha! Wonderful! I wonder what other Taiko performers will think of how Kodo trains?! It’s pretty intense. I absolutely love listening to Taiko drums. Kanae and I were talking about taking lessons! The neighbors may not like it though.

[@michaelsasano8622]

@@onlyinjapan Hi John. I'll let you know what my niece thinks after she sees this. She's performed all across Hawai'i so I'm curious to know as well. You and Kanae should definitely give it a try! And who knows? Maybe your neighbors are Taiko members too and are just waiting to hear someone start practicing so they could join in. Lol! 😊

[@jason_from_canada]

This was a pleasure to watch! Getting to know the Kodo members and their motivations for choosing drums as not just a job, but a way of life. Beautiful shots of the performance and a story well told! I loved when you said when you know what's inside each of those beats, it has a new meaning, well said! 👍🥁

[@bettyG101]

I love Taiko drumming. Mom and dad had a small Taiko drum (and still do) when I was young...I use to play it all the time in Okinawa. That's where I developed my love for drumming. I'm glad you said you can feel it....yes indeed, you can feel the drums in your chest! Everyone should see this at least once in their lives. 👍🏼👍🏼

[@cherrydragon3120]

Fcourse you can feel it. Music is the very core and essence of Human spirituality.

[@ytc6227]

One of my favourite videos about Japan. It deserves more views!!!

[@onlyinjapan]

It does! Give it time 😉 channel grows, this episode grows too!

[@ytc6227]

@@onlyinjapan Great attitude John. Keep up the good work!

[@IPraisetheTrinity]

This is amazing! I remember the first time I watched Only in Japan was only 3 years back. I was on a JAL plane going to the US and it kept me awake all 16 hours of my flight. I am glad I found this channel and until now I wait for every new episode. Thank you, John, for existing and sharing Japan to us.

[@sharangbhattacharya6401]

Never seen Sado Island. Thank you! John you made my day.

[@Peso255]

They're so synchronized, you'd think their hearts beat at the same time. 🥁

[@onlyinjapanGO]

Well said, Peso!

[@MartyDittmar]

That is such a good way of looking at it! So true! I watched the Earth Celebration all stars again after watching this.... so amazing their synchronisation

[@cherrydragon3120]

I wouldn't be surprised

[@emmaclairepatterson4075]

Jon, this is top tier content. It should have way more views. This was such a unique inside peak at a fascinating piece of Japanese culture. And it’s only in Japan! And only on Sado island (never heard of that) which seemed really cool. すごいな

[@willritchie5647]

Wonderful insight into the soul, discipline and tradition of taiko and of kodo itself..this is one thing I want to experience live when tourism starts again 😍👍✈

[@JessyWinNguyen]

Kodo is amazing!!

[@sellagoe]

I love how john include cinematic looks of the island 💯

[@Pebbles2639]

Wonderful video. I am completely amazed at the stamina of these performers 0.o Thank you for sharing the inside look into Kodo :)

[@sassieminx]

Just saw this group in Las Vegas. Amazing is the only word to describe it.

[@geordie1174]

idk what happened to the main channel but thank god johns still making content for us all. best videos about japan on the internet.

[@JoeSmalltaiko]

​ @ONLY in JAPAN * John Daub (this was tucked away as a comment reply, but it was suggested I just put this as a comment) Dropping in (Hi Crissy!)... Hello, I was in the cohort a year after Cristine's (I'm 26th class, 2007-2009). This really was a nice trip down memory lane as I haven't been back to Sado since EC2010. Fantastic, excellent work, ​ Over the years there have been a few non-Japanese nationals to go through the apprentice center, and I'm humbled and privileged to be one of them as well. Even though it really wasn't that long ago, it feels removed as faces change and Kodo continues to evolve while retaining its artistic core and values. The apprentice center, which isn't shown in this documentary, has at certain points over time been featured in various short documentaries here and there, both in Japanese and English, so you can probably find some stuff there floating on youtube. What Chieko-san and Leo-san and Chie-san mention about absolutely applies. @vbart1776 As an apprentice, you wouldn't be allowed a family life, nor would it really be possible, as the approximately two year apprenticeship is all-encompassing. It's rooted in communal living of one's apprentice cohort. The primary purpose is to develop an individual as part of an apprentice cohort from which some of the individuals would become (or at least be considered) for members or staff. So, on top of no romantic relationships, there's no smoking or drinking (except maybe under festival circumstances when it's offered), and exposure and use of media is really limited. But then again, apprentices recognize those rules for what they are and are generally not focused on such restrictions, since there's an overwhelming amount of things that require one's focus - and more importantly, they want to focus on those things. As for Kodo members, some would be married and have families, although I imagine for newest members, their focus is on integrating and being part of the ensemble. To say the apprentice experience is 'intense' doesn't really adequately explain it. And performing members of course could easily scoff and say, "You think that's intense...?" So, there's ups and downs, and the challenges and difficulties are constant. You're mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausted - and through all that you have to keep going and do more and dig within yourselves, often on a daily basis. You do and learn as many different things as possible, and in most cases the knowledge isn't spoon fed to you, either. Taiko (along with dance and singing) are central within that, but definitely not the only aspects of being there. It really is an extension of life. So, although like most apprentices, I didn't become a member, the experiences there definitely have shaped, informed, and helped me as a person, and I am thankful for that. Crissy - actually one of my fond memories is of receiving a bunch of stuff you left for me after I arrived, including a blue work jumpsuit that was several sizes too small. I held onto it as a backup, and one day I did end up needing it as my usual one got soaked in a storm. I had to run back and was hunting for something dry, and realized that was the only option. Somehow I squeezed into it, although it looked pretty hilarious...

[@imsunasong3912]

Super wonderful video!!!

[@PickingBlueberries]

I really like this format, great job!

[@Kasavo]

Hey John, youve done a fantastic work. I love the production quality of the new videos. Dont be discouraged by the rough start of your new channel, it was your genuine passion that propelled your work from the beginning of your previous channel. We are with you all the way man. Keep up the good work and you can count on our support. Your genuine passion is the secret ingredient, and it is one of those things that are very hard to fake! looking forward to your new content! cheers!

[@shelleywebb6450]

I first heard about Kodo while I was in high school. My music teacher showed us a documentary in class that always stuck with me. I was lucky to have seem them perform live twice. Once in Toronto, Canada and once in London, Uk. Maybe one day I'll get to see them in Japan.

[@k-lukawaii9573]

I love Taiko. Feeling the reverberations thru ur chest during a live performance is absolutely magical

[@yoma2655]

The power! What a great art form!

[@demoandcustomerservicevide4223]

By far one of the best episodes I ever watched John. This is the best episode on your channel....

[@DarkstOfficial]

Love it John! Great work, thanks to bringing Kodo, to the people who are in middle of nowhere like me!

[@MartyDittmar]

I love everything about this episode John! So much respect for KODO, they really take everything they do to the next level but you can also see how much they all love it. They really do beat as one and transform into hive mind during their performances. Thanks to you I also supported & watched Earth Celebration live on KZbin this year & my favourite song was the one also at 22:26, watching them perform live was incredible, such hard work but their smiles said it all. Now I just need to see them live & in person! Thanks for another item on my Japan bucket list, Sado island looks to have a lot to offer. 😃

[@venidamcdaniel1913]

I got to experience this at the worlds fair as an honored Toyota international teacher. First in San Francisco then in Japan. I will never forget it.

[@Proberaumwurst]

The videos on your new channel are getting better and better, I'm really impressed. At the same time you're keeping the spirit of the old channel. This one is a great video as well, as always. Please never stop :)

[@Psychol-Snooper]

Thanks for another great video, and thank you for not having an ad every minute!

[@triatharva]

Watching John's videos again makes me remember all the videos I have watched from and feel Soo homely

[@cybeam1]

John, thanks so much for the fascinating deep insights in how much dedication it requires to represent Japan's thousands of years old soul in taiko drumming!! Rock on!!

[@lindblumsan3799]

thanks for making a great video, amazing work as always!!

[@JustIzzan]

that older man having so much stamina and passion is really inspiring

[@FrauVomErdbeerkopf]

Thanks for sharing their story! Their dedication is amazing. Love it!😍 Please keep up your great reports!

[@anthonycortez3423]

Not skipping ads for this channel is the best i could do to show support aside from sharing. This is what you call content. 💓💓💓😤😤😤😤

[@anchorman84]

I'm really feeling the heart and soul you're putting into this new channel. Great work John!

[@Lisa-rh3zr]

Wow! Fantastic Music and they work so hard to perform and those Drums are amazing. Would love to see them perform Live!! Thanks

[@jerrislittlereef4023]

I'm so glad that John is back to creating documentary style videos again, that's why I subscribed to his channel years ago for this kind of experience.

[@jcshinobi1973]

Wow. So amazing. Thank you for making this. I always wanted to know more about These musicians.

[@UFOBobTV]

This is fascinating story. I was moved by all the performers dedication, hard work and exuberance on stage.

[@ashutosh821991]

nice video john.......wash on wash off......Hanna was at last part...John do not forget about his hardworking assistant👍👍

[@hellohi821]

This was an excellent inside view of what the performers do, not just in concert, but also the daily routines and lengthy preparations to perform. Lovely!

[@forestsnowfall]

Wow, they're so regimented and disciplined. You really see that come through and pay off in their performance. Great video!

[@persianOUTKAST]

as always, such a masterfully done video *Mr. Daub* . *LOVED* every moment. keep up the good work !!! ( seeing *Hana* at the end was a nice/cute touch )

[@onlyinjapan]

She helped me a lot on this one :) thanks @persianOUTKAST

[@maniakidd2009]

I had a lot of fun watching (and listening to) this video! Thanks for filming this wonderful musical celebration John!

[@beingmechris]

This documentation about Kodo is really good. The quality and recordings are incredible. I love Taiko drums.

[@graceho7845]

I’ve always loved Japanese performing art. They all put their heart and soul into the performance and expression. I used to learn Electone, which is a sort of keyboard instrument from Japanese Yamaha. When we perform, we are in sync with the instrument. Just like how the Japanese would have it. I just love Japanese spirit when It comes to instrument performance

[@robyn_roamz]

Thanks for this wonderful video. You showed both the intensity and the joy of this performance group. I will have to add seeing the Kodo group to my bucket list.

[@JoshuaRolen]

Thank you for this genuine presentation of true Japanese culture and the Heart of what can only be found in Japan!

[@GeckoOnTheWall]

Really nice to hear the drummers perspective, a fantastic opportunity to live your passion. Another great story, thanks John

[@clarefriend1376]

This is the BEST video you’ve ever done. I had the great pleasure of hearing one of the traveling troops in the 1990. Never knew the history behind their craft!

[@sujoyteslesl]

Wow, John, you've been talkin about this video for months now. And the result was really satisfying. There is just enough content covering various interesting facets of kodo as well as the festival to you want to go out and find out more for oneself. And that's the Hallmark of a good documentary or profile piece. Well done.

[@raymondcenteno5835]

I loved watching the Earth Celebration online. Thank you for introducing us to Kodo. It's amazing to see how much hard work and dedication the members have towards the craft and themselves. I love Taiko and I want to visit Sadogashima one day to watch this live.

[@onlyinjapan]

Raymond Centeno me too! They’re showing the archives for Earth Celebration for another 2 months. GreT to see you watching them play live too! They gave ONLY in JAPAN a nice shout out :)

[@kati0073]

Thank you John for making a topic I thought I was totally not interested in really fun and instructive to watch!! Your enthusiasm is really catching!!

[@yevercase3339]

great video on sado island with the Kodo members and taiko drums! awesome work John. ♥️

[@lovemedead1594]

Incredibly informational as usual! Loved the interviews with the Kodo group members and hearing each of their stories.

[@dodgeman6277]

Great video John love it thanks for sharing.

[@povteer]

the sound of the drums hits through me just watching this video..truly magnificent! I can only imagine how powerful and moving they are in person. great video as always!

[@anasibndawood6696]

Oh man John the quality and work you put into this is immaculate. And the way you narrate it fits perfect . Love this work

[@StratosNikolaidis]

Awesome! A few years ago, a Taiko Drumming team performed in Malta and it was astonishing! Thank you so much for the video!

[@tenaciousg808]

As always, another wonderful video. Thank you again John! We appreciate all the work you put into these.

[@AndrewDrazdikJr]

Historical review of the traditional arts of Japan and "on location" production methods are very good. The video quality is also very appropriate for audio visual media with the KZbin audience of personal computing. Great job!

[@yamabushi_nate7825]

Wow this was just incredible.

[@seeksustainablejapan]

this is awesome John! I can't wait to go to this year's festival and see the Earth Celebration for myself - thanks for the video!

[@coleendwyer]

Thank you so much for making a video about this. The Earth Celebration was so amazing to watch live through your Go channel last year. 😊

[@fabiobium3130]

Wow, it's really impressive to see the way they treat the Kodō tradition. It's a way of life, it's not just about practicing the drum, it's also at taking responsibilities and having a leadership posture.

[@KonSimpl72]

Great stuff! More of/like this, please.

[@Virginie-ro8yo]

a very nice story and a great experience. thanks for the share. And also, the resonance of those drums is amazing !

[@Goku95a]

Great video John, thanks 👍 Would love to see Kodo live

[@raymondcenteno5835]

I'm with you there. This would be amazing in person

[@christinehayashida1024]

Thanks for bringing us this in-depth look at Kodo. Especially enjoyed the interviews with the founders and members and getting to peek into their daily life at the dorm. The footage of their performance at the Earth Celebration was inspiring so one day I hope to visit Sado Island for the event. Loving the longer format of your new channel! Keep up the great work!

[@HSHSHS537]

Finally! I just realized you have a new channel!! Was waiting for new videos on the old account. These video qualities are the best! Hope you can keep making amazing content on this new channel.

[@carlcustodio4186]

Great video! Was looking forward so much to this... I always loved the feeling I get when listening to Taiko music. Thanks, John!

[@DRealSelix]

Ok, this is on my bucket-list too.. to visit and experience a live Taiko drumming event.

[@jmac217x]

Such an incredible festival! This channel could have a slot on the big TV networks with the quality effort you put into it John. I love what you're doing. I can feel the passion. Love and respect.

[@pebkac1245]

I love taiko drummers. The first time i heard taiko drummers was at disney world, and boy were they epic.

[@davidmatchett2947]

I have been twice to see The Yamato drummers here in Western Australia. They are fantastic

[@aliddlebird]

John, you spread so much joy and knowledge.

[@rosiereal804]

John, this is fantastic. Thank you so much for sharing the talent of this amazing group. You can feel the cultural importance of taiko thru the drummers. Well done’

[@funtrain23]

So much energy coming out of those drums

[@SheppardP90]

Great work again. Thanks 🙂

[@vkjfsdg]

A fascinating look into this musical group I've heard so much about since childhood!

[@enorcsi]

So happy you became such a fan John, and that it led to these videos! 😁

[@indianfyre]

Great start to the new channel Mr Daub, will keep watching and supporting as usual from Toronto!

[@sakurap]

This is such an incredible film, information and viewing wise. Thank you for producing and sharing about Kodo on Sado island. I visited Chichibu Yomatsuri during 2017 and an astounded to learn that they drummed while sitting down. Thank you so much John, I have a newfound appreciation towards taiko now.

[@garydell2023]

John, hello. I saw this group once before and now with you I was enamored with the performance. Thank you for bringing out the background and training. Greatly appreciated.

[@onlyinjapan]

There is nothing better than enjoying the performance live - each drum beat hits your soul. Powerful stuff. Thanks for watching Gary!

[@SilkyC]

Japanese drumming is just so beautiful to watch!!!! The history, the passion and the love of preserving such culture is such a joy to watch! As always - thank you for sharing John!

[@cherrydragon3120]

Its unique for sure. Very unique

[@rrussdraws]

Always enjoy a good ol only in japan video. Great job John!