KRISTEN KOYAMA

Kristen was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA, where she was a loyal taiko spectator for many years before the sound of the odaiko finally proved too compelling to resist. Her taiko quest brought her first to Rev. Tom Kurai'ss Taiko Center of Los Angeles, where she began classes in 2001. However, a graduate program in Animals and Public Policy lured her to Massachusetts in the fall of 2001. After completing her degree, Kristen was eager to resume her taiko education and began taking classes with Odaiko New England in October 2002. She became a performing member in 2005.

As a performing member, Kristen hopes to bring some West coast flavor to the group's East coast perspective. She also serves as a reminder that taiko is not just for those with an interest in music, dance, or Japanese culture - it can be a cool thing to do from an athletic perspective as well.

"As an athlete, I've always enjoyed challenging myself physically and learning how to use my body in new ways. Taiko offers an excellent combination of physical expression, mental focus, teamwork, and musical creativity to boot - what more can you ask for?"

Currently, Kristen's daily grind takes place at the National Marine Fisheries Service's Northeast Regional Office, where she implements the region's right whale ship strike reduction program and helps other federal agencies comply with the Endangered Species Act.