Our Mission
At Sun Mountain Taiko, we are dedicated to bringing the art, discipline, and joy of taiko drumming to the Colorado Springs community. We believe in the power of rhythm to unite, uplift, and empower people of all backgrounds. Whether you are a seasoned performer, a beginner eager to learn or simply looking to experience the thunderous heartbeat of taiko, we welcome you!
The Spirit of Taiko
Taiko drumming is more than just music—it is a deeply rooted Japanese tradition that blends rhythm, movement, and spirit into a powerful art form. Originating over a thousand years ago, taiko has been used in religious ceremonies, battlefield communications, and cultural festivals. Today, it continues to inspire and connect people worldwide through its energy, discipline, and communal spirit.
Why We Exist
Sun Mountain Taiko was founded with a passion for preserving and sharing the traditions of Japanese taiko drumming while embracing its evolution in a modern world. Our goal is to create a space for learning, cultural appreciation, and artistic expression—a place where people of all ages and skill levels can connect through the power of the drum.
Through performances, workshops, and community outreach, we aim to inspire a love for taiko, foster cultural exchange, and build a vibrant drumming community in Colorado Springs.
Join us, feel the rhythm, and become part of the Sun Mountain Taiko family!
Meet the Group
Gail Kudo-Montgomery
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Gail is a third generation (Sansei) Japanese American who grew up in taiko-rich Southern California. After experiencing taiko many times at WLA Obon and seeing Kodo live in concert, she finally decided to give taiko a try when she retired from corporate life in 2015. She joined the now defunct Taiko Society and played on one (!) song at her first performance. One of the founders of Sun Mountain Taiko, Gail has been on the Board since its inception.
A descendent of Japanese Americans who were incarcerated at Manzanar and Poston, she is interested in JA history, particularly the plight of those who lost their farms during the war. Okagesama de.
Amanda Casey
Amanda discovered taiko when her husband was living out of state earning a master's degree. She wanted to find a musical outlet that helped her engage with the local Colorado Springs community. She sticks with the group because the members are fun and taiko has always been therapeutic for her. She has two cats and loves to write paranormal romance novels.
Chris Tessarowicz
Bio coming soon
Cynthia Holling-Morris
I discovered taiko in 2013 and I love it the feeling of the drums in my chest and playing with this high-energy, fun, dedicated group of people. My day job is Department Chair of the Professional Photography department at PPSC. a surprising thing about me is that I was a professional belly dancer for 40 years.
Kate Raphael
Kate discovered taiko in 2015 and has been playing since then. When she is not playing taiko, she enjoys running and traveling and often combines the two in her quest to run in all 50 states.
Zechariah Hoot
Bio coming soon
Bonnie Goodall
Born and raised in Colorado to a mother from Kyoto, Japan, Bonnie’s Japanese heritage helped inspire her taiko journey. Captivated by Kodo and local taiko groups, she joined Colorado Springs Taiko Society in 2018. After the group disbanded during COVID, its remaining members continued playing together and eventually formed Sun Mountain Taiko.
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When she’s not making a joyful racket on the drums, Bonnie enjoys hiking, biking, paddleboarding, and exploring Colorado’s beautiful outdoors. She also volunteers at a cat rescue and a therapeutic riding center.
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Her philosophy? Life is too short not to drum loudly, love animals deeply, and stop to enjoy the view along the way!