Led by Masataka Kobayashi, Bonten is a professional drumming troupe consisting of seven male and female drummers who have been trained at Masataka Kobayashi’s taiko institution, the Mirai Taiko Dojo. Bonten was formed in 1999 and debuted in 2000. With a high level of technical ability, energy, and great power of expression, the sounds that they create have mesmerized people from all over the world. While respecting the tradition of taiko drumming, they also incorporate the beats of taiko drums with the Japanese flute, koto, and piano. The chief message they wish to convey to their audiences is the beauty .