Kakegoe

Kakegoe, written in Japanese as 掛け声 and romanized as kakegoe, is a term used in Japanese performing arts to describe vocal interjections or shouted cues that accompany a performance. The literal meaning is "call-out" or "shout," and the practice functions as a tool to convey timing, rhythm, and energy, while also helping performers communicate with one another and with the audience. Kakegoe can be pre-arranged as part of a piece or improvised in the moment, and it may be delivered by a single performer, by a section of players, or in unison across the group. The tradition spans various genres, from traditional theatre and dance to contemporary musical performances.

In taiko drumming, kakegoe are a distinctive feature. Players vocalize short syllables during or between strokes to signal tempo changes, emphasize accents, and sustain momentum. The calls also serve to energize the ensemble and to create a performative connection with spectators. The exact sounds and rhythms of kakegoe vary by school, region, and piece; some groups use a fixed repertoire, while others encourage spontaneous interaction.

Kakegoe has historical roots in ensemble performance in Japan and remains a core element of many modern taiko ensembles. Beyond taiko, the practice appears in other forms of traditional and folk performance as a general method of coordinating action and engaging the audience. In all contexts, kakegoe reflects the collaborative nature of group performance and the interplay of voice, rhythm, and movement.