On August 24, Okayama University’s Cheerleading Band participated in the “66th All-Japan Wind Instrument Competition, Chugoku Region,” held at the Shunan City Cultural Center in Yamaguchi Prefecture, and won a Gold Award. This achievement marks a further step forward from last year’s Silver Award.

Their participation in this regional competition was secured after receiving a Gold Award at the “66th Okayama Prefecture Wind Instrument Competition” held on August 10 at the Kurashiki Civic Hall, which led to their recommendation as a representative of Okayama Prefecture. Eight university bands from across the Chugoku region gathered for the event. Okayama University’s Cheerleading Band performed the required piece, March “Memories Refrain” (composed by Mr.ITO Shion), and the free-choice piece, Praise Jerusalem! (composed by Alfred Reed), filling the venue with their signature sound.

Student conductor KATADA Yutaro (3rd year, School of Education) reflected, “As the conductor, I focused on leading ensemble rehearsals and creating practice plans. At first, rehearsals tended to be passive, but as the competition neared, players began independently identifying areas for improvement and thinking actively about how they wanted the music to sound. I could feel the music coming to life, and creating it together from the heart was pure joy. Because instruments produce sound when we breathe into them, imagining the sound we want to create is what deepens the musical experience. On stage, our band looked more confident and impressive than any other group.”

Band leader SASA Kanamu (3rd year, School of Science) added, “First, I want to express my gratitude to everyone who supported us. Through this competition, I witnessed tremendous growth among our members, not only as musicians but also as individuals. It was a time full of both laughter and tears, and it became an incredibly meaningful period for all of us. For me, this competition was the last of my student years, and it has truly become an unforgettable, regret-free highlight. Building on this experience, we will continue doing our best, so please keep cheering for us.”

Okayama University's Cheerleading Band has the following performances planned. We hope you will continue to follow and support their future activities as they train and perform together with full dedication.

○Upcoming Performances
November 2: Autumn Concert (Shimizu Memorial Gymnasium)
December 7: Joint Concert and Art Exhibition of Chugoku-Shikoku National Universities (Izumo Civic Center)
March 1: Regular Concert (Kurashiki Civic Hall)

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