Shota Otaguro is a multi-talented percussionist based in San Jose, California. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance from San Jose State University under the guidance of Galen Lemmon, specializing in classical, orchestral, and contemporary percussion.

As a member of the San Francisco Brass Band, he achieved first place in the solo percussion category at the 2023 North American Brass Band Association, while the San Francisco Brass band also secured the top spot in their class. In 2019, he won the Fremont Symphony’s Young Artist Competition and the SJSU concerto competition, while also securing first place in California’s PAS competitive festival’s collegiate solo marimba category in 2018.

Shota’s artistic versatility extends to numerous professional ensembles. He serves as the tuned percussionist for The Stinkfoot Orchestra, contributing significantly in their multiple West Coast tours. In addition, he serves as the principal percussionist for the Monterey Pops Band, and is the dedicated IMAG operator for Symphony San Jose.

Currently, he is conducting the San Jose Youth Symphony’s Percussion Ensemble, introducing young musicians to a diverse repertoire of contemporary and classical pieces, including his own compositions and arrangements. Alongside conducting the percussion ensemble, Shota teaches and organizes the percussion section across all orchestral ensembles in SJYS.

As an advocate for the marching arts, Shota has been the percussion coordinator for the Monta Vista High School music program. He arranges the percussion parts during the fall marching band season and teaches as the percussion caption head. During the winter season he designs, composes, and directs the winter percussion program.