About Shasta Taiko

Shasta Taiko was founded in 1985 by Russel Hisashi Baba and Jeanne Aiko Mercer, both recognized artists in traditional and contemporary taiko, new music, and jazz. They began their taiko training with Grand Master Seiichi Tanaka and San Francisco Taiko Dojo in 1972. In 1996, Baba and Mercer established a successful annual formal taiko show—Shasta Taiko in Concert. In 2005, the show expanded outdoors to Mount Shasta’s Shastice Park and was renamed ShastaYama, which is now developing into a major taiko and music festival.

ShastaYama 2007 Taiko Festival
Shasta Taiko performing at the 2007 ShastaYama Taiko Festival

Initially, Shasta Taiko was formed to teach the Mt. Shasta children the Japanese cultural art of taiko. Masato “Maz” Baba, their then six-year-old son, was among their first students. Mt. Shasta residents Shoji Kameda and his two sisters Tami and Ayumi joined with other local children and under the patient and disciplinary guidance of Russel and Jeanne developed into an exciting and dynamic performing group.

An award winning video documentary, “Shasta Taiko” was produced, featuring this accomplished youth ensemble by S. Carol Ono, Russel’s supportive sister

Scroll to Top