Born in Kyoto, Hori started learning taiko (Japanese drum) at age 11 and studied Western percussion and music theory at Kyoto Horikawa Senior High School of Music. During high school, she also played drums in a rock band. She joined the taiko group Kodo in 1996 and was its member for 14 years. Now based in Antwerp, Hori collaborates with artists from different genres. Her unique music, created using Japanese rhythms and songs, is highly acclaimed both in Japan and abroad.

Abe is a shinobue player. Shinobue is an ancient Japanese flute made from shino bamboo. After 14 years as a member of taiko group Kodo, Abe currently lives in his hometown, Niihama, Ehime Prefecture. While hosting “Shinobue Studio --- playing the flute by deep breathing and the heart,” a private lesson focusing on shinobue and breathing techniques, he also participates as a shinobue player and taiko drummer in contemporary dance performances, such as “PUZ/ZLE” and “BABEL(WORDS),” choreographed by Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui. He spends half his time performing abroad. Abe has played the shinobue in 26 countries, holding solo performances as well as doing workshops and sharing the charms of shinobue.

Kazunari Abe’s website

Yasushi Kita performs in Japan, the U.S. and other countries as the singer/shamisen player/guitarist of NolenNiu-de-Ossi. He also does shows as a Tsugaru-jamisen performer, and teaches. In 10 years, he has been involved in teaching nearly 100 students.