Mighty Drumming Club - Member Profiles

Sensei

Sensei

Name	Drums / Style	Background	Image
Megan Chao Smith	Director, mentor, multiple taiko styles	Founder and guiding force of MDC; integrates accessibility, cultural education, and youth empowerment

Mighty Drumming Club Youth Performers

Current Performers

Name	Drums / Style	Background	Image
Ivy Clay-Buck	Clean form, steady ensemble timing	A focused and expressive performer known for strong ensemble awareness and visual cohesion
Nico Gonzalez	Bold hits, energetic movement	Charismatic and enthusiastic, Nico brings high energy to festivals and parades
Xixi Lu-Reising	Precise timing, detail-oriented	Highly musical with natural rhythmic sensitivity; anchors transitions and supports younger drummers
True Polinske	High stamina, dynamic performance	Thrives in high-energy pieces; shows consistent improvement and strong stage presence
Josie Smith-Weir	Expressive, narrative-driven style	Brings emotional depth to slower pieces; excels at connecting movement with musical phrasing
Gabriel Wallenfeldt	Rhythmic stability, grounded form	Reliable and team-oriented; provides steady rhythm during complex arrangements
Hiroko Zeleke	Versatile, adaptive rhythm	Strong sense of timing; adapts quickly to new patterns and shines in both solo and ensemble work

Former Members

Name	Drums / Style	Background	Image
Emi Urabe
Nils Hilleson
Kai Todsen

Enso Daiko

Performing Members

Name	Drums / Style	Background	Image
Vanessa East	Fluid, dance-influenced movement	Brings grace and precision to ensemble work with a strong sense of musicality
Jeff Ellsworth	Powerful strikes, grounded form	Known for strength and rhythmic clarity; a stabilizing presence in group pieces
Lydia Komatsu	Versatile, sensitive ensemble blending	Excels at balancing ensemble textures while elevating the group’s overall sound

Instructors

Name	Drums / Style	Background	Image
Craig Johnson	Technical precision, strong form	Known for clear instruction and emphasis on power, form, and ensemble unity
Emily Harada	Expressive, musical, intentional	Brings cultural context and musicality to her teaching; helps students connect movement with intention
Jennifer Weir	Leadership, choreography, community-building	Founder of TaikoArts Midwest; nationally recognized taiko leader and cultural steward

Taiko Arts Midwest Students

Name	Drums / Style	Background	Image
Andrea Dolan	Strong technique, steady form	Dedicated student with enthusiasm and consistent progress in taiko fundamentals