Michi Bossett - 3rd Dan
Modern kyudo is a homogenized system that all the top leaders of Japanese kyudo decided to agreeapon so all of the many family styles can practice together. The goal of modern kyudo is truth, goodness and beauty of each Kyudoka.
Michi is the Co-Instructor of Long Beach Kyudo Kai & board member of the University of Archery.

Rick Beal – 5th Dan
The monk style was created after the invent of gunpowder , the shogun no longer felt archer was needed and the numbers of Kyudoka dropped heavily but many family clans kept up the old ways and just developed religious meditation like exercises and practice using the yumi the Japanese bow.
Rick is the Founder and President of Nanka Kyudo Kai he developed most of the top instructors in so. Cal. today.

Marcus Bossett – 5th Dan
The battle Kyudoka , these archers were apart of every clan whom fought for over 2000 years many styles were developed and trained but only a few have survived.Today’s demonstration is that of a common bowman in a shoguns army a swordsman with bow.The goal of training in this style is sharpening ones “inner sward” the art of honing ones own character and budo spirit.
Marcus is the Co-Instructor of Long Beach Kyudo Kai & Director of the University of Archery.

Miwa Bossett - White Belt
If we are lucky a guest appearance 2 year old birthday girl and a demonstration of the future of kyudo. If she is in the mood.
Miwa is My Arrow Angel.

Taiko(Japanese Drum)

KOKURA GION DAIKO PRESERVATION PROMOTIONAL SOCIETY IN AMERICA

"Kogenkai" is the only Taiko (Japanese drum) group outside of Japan to succeed the authentic festive Taiko music of Kokura Gion Festival. Kokura Gion Festival is a nationally renowned summer festival of Fukuoka prefecture with a 400-yaer history. With the mission to succeed the long tradition of the native culture to young generations in the U.S., Kogenkai was established in 2006 as a part of Nannka Fukuoka Kenjinkai (The Association of People from Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan) which will be celebrating its 1 OOth year in 2008. Currently, Kogenkai consists of 18 members and is based in West LA.

Kokura Gion Daiko is recognized as one of Japan's Intangible Cultural Properties. The drum has two sides that produce two different tones when struck: Kan and Doro. The Doro side has a lower pitch and is usually used to beat the standard rhythm. The Kan side is used for intricate rhythms. Both rhythms are played to the sound of cymbals called Jangara and whistles called Fue.

Kogenkai has been deeply involved with community activities and performed at various places such as the New Year celebration in Little Tokyo, friendship gatherings for mentally challenged children and fundraising events.

While you may find numerous Taiko groups in Southern California, Kogenkai is truly unique with its double-sided Taiko action. If you're looking for something different for your next party or gathering, please let us know!