Exciting News for Jazz Enthusiasts: YAMANO BIG BAND JAZZ CONTEST 2026 Announced

Introducing the 57th YAMANO BIG BAND JAZZ CONTEST

On August 15 and 16, 2026, the highly anticipated 57th YAMANO BIG BAND JAZZ CONTEST (YBBJC) will take place in Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture. Organized by Yamano Music Co., Ltd., this annual event is a celebrated stage for student jazz bands from across the nation.

Overview of YBBJC

Founded more than 50 years ago, the YAMANO BIG BAND JAZZ CONTEST, affectionately known as "Yamano," has played an integral role in nurturing young talent within the student big band community. This competition not only helps in fostering exceptional skills among participants but has also produced numerous professional musicians who have made significant contributions to the jazz scene. The motto of the contest focuses on the social impact of music, and Yamano Music continues to enhance the quality and skills of student big bands through this event.

Event Details

- Event Name: The 57th YAMANO BIG BAND JAZZ CONTEST (YBBJC)
- Dates: August 15 and 16, 2026
- Venue: CULUTZ Kawasaki, 1-1-4 Fujimi, Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Participating Bands: 33 student orchestras from across the country
- Official Website: YBBJC Official Site

Participating Order

August 15 (Saturday)

1. Kansai University Tiny Village Big Band
2. Nagoya University Edel Röte Jazz Orchester
3. Waseda University High Society Orchestra
4. Toyo University Groovy Sounds Jazz Orchestra
5. Shibaura Institute of Technology College Society Jazz Orchestra
6. University of Tokyo Jazz Junk Workshop
7. Showa Music University Lily Jazz Orchestra
8. Yokohama National University Baysound Jazz Orchestra
9. K.M.P. New Sound Orchestra
10. Keio University Light Music Society
11. Kanazawa University Modern Jazz Society
12. Ritsumeikan University R.U.Swingin' Herd Jazz Ensemble
13. Kwansei Gakuin University K.G. Swing Charioteers
14. Los Guaracheros
15. Aichi University Blue Stars Jazz Orchestra
16. Shizuoka University Jazz Phenomena
17. Gakushuin University Sky Sounds Jazz Orchestra
18. Kyoto University Dark Blue New Sounds Orchestra
19. Sophia University New Swing Jazz Orchestra
20. Rikkyo University New Swingin' Herd

August 16 (Sunday)

1. Konan University Newport Swing Orchestra
2. Senshu University Green Sounds Orchestra
3. Osaka University The New Wave Jazz Orchestra
4. Senzoku Gakuen College of Music Shiwashiwaz
5. Tohoku University New Forest Jazz Orchestra
6. Doshisha University The Third Herd Orchestra
7. Seikei University Compal Sounds Jazz Orchestra
8. Nippon Medical School Midnight Sounds Jazz Orchestra
9. Meiji University Big Sounds Society Orchestra
10. Kobe University KOBE Mussoc Jazz Orchestra
11. Chuo University Swing Crystal Orchestra
12. Hosei University New Orange Swing Orchestra
13. Aoyama Gakuin University Royal Sounds Jazz Orchestra

Special Ambassador: Hoo-chan

Adding to the excitement of the contest, Yamano Music has appointed its official character, Hoo-chan, as the event’s ambassador. Hoo-chan, a delightful musical fairy, aims to spread the joy of big band music. Everyone is encouraged to keep an eye out for Hoo-chan’s energetic participation!

Hoo-chan’s Profile

- Name: Hoo-chan
- Birthday: June 24 (Doremi Day)
- Personality: A playful and cheerful character who loves to bring joy to everyone, Hoo-chan is also a bit sensitive.
- Hobbies: Playing instruments and singing.
- Core Belief: "Music and birds have no borders."
- Fashion Statement: Adorned in a bird hat, Hoo-chan aspires to be free like birds, flying across borders.

Follow Hoo-chan on Social Media

About Yamano Music Co., Ltd.

Yamano Music, established in 1892, is a comprehensive music specialty store located in Ginza, Tokyo. With 134 years of service in 2026, the company sells a wide range of musical instruments and scores, while also providing music education across approximately 40 locations nationwide.