Concert: Taiko – Japanese Folk meets Nordic Folk

Buy tickets and annual pass here

This special concert features Ryo Shiobara and Kazumi Aren, two Japanese artists who bring deep musicality and vibrant energy to the stage. Their performance will be joined by Nordic folk musicians playing traditional instruments, creating a powerful cross-cultural dialogue between drums, flutes, and string sounds.

Taiko is the traditional Japanese drum, known for its deep resonance and physical intensity. It has been used for centuries in festivals, rituals, and even on the battlefield, where its powerful sound was used to stir spirits and communicate during times of war. The shinobue, a bamboo flute with a bright and penetrating tone, is often heard in traditional Japanese celebrations, religious ceremonies, and stage performances. Together, they form the rhythmic and melodic heart of Japanese folk expression.

The concert will include solo and collaborative pieces, blending the dynamic force of Japanese taiko with the mystical tones of Nordic folk instruments – a soundscape where East and North resonate together.

Welcome!

Performers

Ryo Shiobara – Taiko, Shamisen
A renowned taiko soloist and composer from Japan, known for his powerful odaiko drumming and unique musical expression blending tradition with innovation.

Kazumi Aren – Taiko, Shinobue (Japanese bamboo flute)
A multi-instrumentalist who bridges Japanese traditional music and contemporary performance, bringing lyrical energy through both drum and flute.

Maki Kobayashi – Stockholm Taiko
Founder of Stockholm Taiko, Maki is a taiko performer and cultural bridge-builder who creates rhythm-based experiences rooted in Japanese tradition and inner transformation.

Guest Artists – Nordic Folk Music
Specially invited musicians from the Nordic folk scene, performing with traditional instruments and joining in cross-cultural musical collaboration with the taiko ensemble.

There will be another concert on the same day. It is possible to buy a package ticket for both concerts. Read more about Japan's wind meets Swedish forests - with Yasukazu KANO and Mattias Lindberg here.

Annual pass

The annual pass costs SEK 200 and is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase. The annual pass is valid for the Museum of Ethnography and the Museum of Mediterranean and Near Eastern Antiquities in Stockholm. Another option is an Annual Pass Support for SEK 350, valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, which also gives you entry to the Museum of World Culture in Gothenburg 

Among other things, the annual pass gives you discounted prices on several events and family activites 

The National Museums of World Culture also include the Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, which is currently closed for renovation and will reopen in 2026.