Takarajima

 Honestly, I couldn't have a Japan-related blog without talking about anime at least once. There's a show called Hibike! Euphonium and it's about a girl named Kumiko Oumae who plays the euphonium. She chooses to give up music after her experience at the National Music Band Competition during middle school. High school for her has other plans as despite her efforts, she ends up being roped back into doing band once more. The Kitauji High band, despite being a former national placing group, is a shell of its former self. Thus, this begins the journey of trying to get the band to nationals. 


The episode in particular I want to talk about is from season 2, episode 7. The episode is called "Station Concert," and much as the title suggests, the band is performing at Takarajima Station. There are a couple of solo moments in the alto saxophone and baritone saxophone, but it's a very upbeat and fun piece. The one part of this piece that always stands out to me is the rips in the horn part. I have a clip from the anime you can watch if you have the chance.


I also have another recording of the piece done by the WISH Wind Orchestra. There were so so so many recordings of this piece done by so many bands, professional and student ones. A little context for the WISH Wind Orchestra, apparently they were founded in 2007 by a group of students who were still in their study of music at university. They have done charity events in the aftermath of earthquakes, competitions, tours in Japan, and music appreciation classes. Their focus is mainly on original works. During the baritone solo section in the anime, the WISH Wind Orchestra has the whole saxophone section come forward to solo together. In many recordings of this piece I've watched, the clapping of the audience can be heard, including this one. I feel it shows the recognizability of this piece in Japan and the love the band community has toward the show. One thing that I've always loved about anime how it feels like there is a show for every kind of person to relate to. 



Comments

  1. Robert KrauseApril 30, 2025 at 6:02 AM

    I have enjoyed your blog so much! This post makes me happy as I really enjoyed this anime! The music was always amazing and really shows an almost inside look on our lives both as educators and musicians. Thank you for sharing these videos and the joy of anime!

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