#Japan #Kawasaki #Yamano Music #Jazz Contest

The Thrill of Jazz: The 56th Yamano Big Band Jazz Contest

On August 16 and 17, 2025, the much-anticipated 56th Yamano Big Band Jazz Contest will take place at the prestigious Cultur Kawai (カルッツかわさき) in Kawasaki, Kanagawa. Organized by Yamano Music Co., Ltd., a company with a rich heritage in the music industry, this event promises an exhilarating experience for jazz enthusiasts as it showcases the incredible talents of student big bands from across Japan.

A Legacy of Excellence

Celebrated as a vital stepping stone in the world of collegiate jazz, the Yamano Big Band Jazz Contest, affectionately known as “Yamano,” has been a launchpad for numerous aspiring musicians for over half a century. The contest's mission to contribute to society through music has guided its annual efforts to promote and enhance the skills of student jazz groups. The competition not only fosters musical development but also unites jazz lovers in a celebration of talent and creativity.

Event Details

Contest Overview:

• - Event Name: The 56th Yamano Big Band Jazz Contest
• - Dates: August 16-17, 2025
• - Location: Cultur Kawai, Kawasaki City (1-1-4 Fujimi, Kawasaki, Kanagawa)
• - Participants: 30 student big bands from across the nation
• - Chief Judge: Toshimori Miki (Composer/Arranger)
• - Judges: Include renowned musicians such as Tatsuhi Iwase (Drummer/Arranger), Eric Miyashiro (Trumpet Artist), Masamitsu Okazaki (Music Writer), Kenichi Kakuta (Trombone Player/Arranger), Masato Honda (Saxophonist/Arranger), Junko Moriya (Jazz Pianist/Arranger), and Daiki Ankagawa (Bassist).
• - Master of Ceremonies: Hiroko Kōfu (Pianist/Arranger)
• - Official Website: Yamano Music

Performance Schedule

August 16, Saturday:

1. Waseda University High Society Orchestra
2. Hosei University New Orange Swing Orchestra
3. Senshu University Shiwashiwazu
4. Showa Music University Lily Jazz Orchestra
5. Chuo University Swing Crystal Orchestra
6. Nagoya University Edel Röte Jazz Orchester
7. The University of Tokyo Jazz Junk Workshop
8. Senshu University Green Sounds Orchestra
9. Los Guaracheros
10. Kanazawa University Modern Jazz Society
11. Ritsumeikan University R.U. Swingin’ Herd Jazz Ensemble
12. Kyoto University Dark Blue New Sounds Orchestra
13. Kansai University Tiny Village Big Band (First Appearance)
14. Gakushuin University Sky Sounds Jazz Orchestra
15. Doshisha University The Third Herd Orchestra
16. Chinzei Gakuin University Wesleyan Jazz Ensemble
17. Rikkyo University New Swingin’ Herd

August 17, Sunday:

1. K.M.P. New Sound Orchestra
2. Meiji University Big Sounds Society Orchestra
3. Yokohama National University Baysound Jazz Orchestra
4. Kobe University KOBE Mussoc Jazz Orchestra
5. Aoyama Gakuin University Royal Sounds Jazz Orchestra
6. Aichi University Blue Stars Jazz Orchestra
7. Shibaura Institute of Technology College Society Jazz Orchestra
8. Konan University Newport Swing Orchestra
9. Osaka University The New Wave Jazz Orchestra
10. Kansai Gakuin University K.G. Swing Charioteers
11. Tohoku University New Forest Jazz Orchestra
12. Nippon Medical School Midnight Sounds Jazz Orchestra
13. Light Music Society

Connect with the Contest

Follow the Yamano Big Band Jazz Contest on social media for updates:

• - X (Formerly Twitter): YBBJC Official
• - Instagram: @ybbjc_insta
• - Facebook: Yamano Big Band

About Yamano Music Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1892 and headquartered in Ginza, Tokyo, Yamano Music has established itself as a leading music retailer with over 130 years of experience. The company specializes in a wide range of musical instruments, sheet music, and audiovisual media, and also operates more than 40 music schools across Japan. With a commitment to fostering musical talent and promoting music culture, Yamano Music continues to play a vital role in the music industry.

For more information on Yamano Music and inquiries, please visit their official website: Yamano Music.