Kodo Apprentice Centre

Kodo is based on Sado Island, where the ensemble is immersed in rich nature and a treasure trove of performing arts. This island inspires and underpins Kodo’s creative activities. Young people travel here from throughout Japan and around the world to study at Kodo Apprentice Centre, a training facility run by Kodo Cultural Foundation. Through hands-on experience and communal living, Kodo shares its philosophy and quest to create new traditions, handing its approach down to the next generation.

In their first year, apprentices develop a solid base through a diverse curriculum centred around taiko, dance, singing, and communal life. The programme includes learning a range of arts, crafts, and how to grow their own food. In the second year, alongside their core studies, they receive practical opportunities to develop their skills on the job. These include joining Kodo on-stage for its annual Kodo Sado Island Performances in Shukunegi and delivering Interactive Performances at local junior high schools.
The apprentices also build bonds with the local area and experience daily life in the village community. We believe that these experiences help prepare them for the stage and are an important part of shaping them as individuals, too.

After successfully completing their studies at Kodo Apprentice Centre, apprentices may be selected to become junior members of Kodo Taiko Performing Arts Ensemble for one or two years, during which they train and perform as probationary members of Kodo. At the end of this term, junior members who pass a final selection stage are invited to become fully-fledged Kodo performers.

Applications Re-Open for Kodo Apprentice Centre’s 2027 Intake

In 2025, Kodo Apprentice Centre went through a major transition. For the first time in forty years, Kodo suspended its apprentice intake to carry out a thorough review and reform of the curriculum. This process involved adapting the Centre and its programming to better align with social and environmental changes, as well as restructuring our staffing system to ensure sustainable operations.

During this suspension, we focused on improving the apprentice programme for the next generation of hopefuls who come through our doors with their sights set on the Kodo stage. This period allowed us to reaffirm that the Centre is where every new Kodo performer builds a strong foundation and hones their expression, underscoring just how essential this programme is to our ensemble.

Applications are now open for the 2027 Apprentice Intake. Click the button below to read about the application process in English.

2027 Apprentice Applicant Info

Further details regarding Kodo Apprentice Centre and its training programme are provided in Japanese only, as advanced Japanese-language proficiency is required for all applicants. Thank you for your understanding.

Kodo Apprentice Centre (Japanese)

Inquiries

Please contact Kodo Apprentice Centre via the form below.