Shoji Tabuchi, National Fiddler Hall of Famer, dies at 79

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The city of Branson issued an official statement at 11 a.m. Saturday, offering condolences and describing Tabuchi as "one of Branson’s all-time, greatest gems. A trailblazer. A good man. A world-class performer. The much-loved Shoji Tabuchi. Thank you Tabuchi Family for your decades with us."

The city also reshared the mayoral proclamation that made Aug. 31, 2021 the "Shoji, Dorothy and Christina Tabuchi Day" in honor of their contributions to the Branson community. It noted the family's support of music education in public schools and the role they played in the "establishment of both the Christmas and

World-renowned fiddler and longtime Branson, Missouri entertainer Shoji Tabuchi has died at age 79. Friends, fans and fellow musicians have been sharing their condolences and favorite memories on social media.

Tabuchi, who has been hailed as the King of Branson, has been a popular draw in the live music and family vacation spot for more than 30 years.

His first performance in Branson was in the early 1980s but by the end of that decade, he opened The Shoji Tabuchi Theatre. Over the years, as his popularity grew, the size of the theater expanded and relocated.

He performed at his eponymous theater, which was later damaged in a fire, often appearing on stage with his wife Dorothy and daughter Christina.