**The Kyoto Tachibana High School Green Band: A Harmonious Performance**
The Rose Parade, held annually on New Year’s Day in Pasadena, California, is a world-renowned event that brings together music, dance, and spectacle. Among the 24 bands scheduled to perform in the parade is the Kyoto Tachibana High School Green Band from Japan, making its third appearance in the parade. But what makes this band stand out is its unique blend of music and dance, precision marching, and infectious energy.
The band, considered the best and most innovative high school marching band in Japan, is composed of 109 current students and 82 recent graduates. Until a few years ago, when the school began admitting boys, the orchestra was composed entirely of girls. The band’s whirlwind tour of Southern California began on Christmas Day, when performers and their instruments arrived at Los Angeles International Airport.
During their stay, the band members dispersed throughout Southern California, staying with host families and practicing their performance in the parking lot of Anaheim Angel Stadium. Local volunteers and Penske moving trucks transported their instruments, ensuring a seamless rehearsal process.
The band’s music director, Fumihiko Yasuda, said that the band was chosen for the Rose Parade due to their impressive performance combining dance and music. “The steps are very deft, the voices are beautiful, and they play eight tunes,” he said, observing the band’s rehearsal.
The band’s repertoire includes a medley of songs, from Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off” and Lady Gaga’s “Poker Face” to the Beach Boys’ classic “Surfin’ USA” and jazz standards. “Sing Sing,” made famous by Benny Goodman. Band leaders say they chose songs that American audiences of all ages will enjoy.
For the band members, Rose Parade days begin early, with performances starting in the predawn hours. They circulate through the streets of Pasadena before wrapping up in the late morning. The band’s performance is a testament to the power of music and dance to bring people together.
**FAQ Section**
Q: What is the Kyoto Tachibana High School Green Band?
A: The Kyoto Tachibana High School Green Band is a Japanese high school marching band that is considered the best and most innovative in Japan.
Q: How many band members are participating in the Rose Parade?
A: There are 109 current students and 82 recent graduates participating in the Rose Parade.
Q: What is the band’s music director’s name?
A: The band’s music director is Fumihiko Yasuda.
Q: What is the band’s repertoire for the Rose Parade?
A: The band’s repertoire includes a medley of songs, from Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off” and Lady Gaga’s “Poker Face” to the Beach Boys’ classic “Surfin’ USA” and jazz standards.
Q: What is the band’s schedule for the Rose Parade days?
A: The band’s performance days begin early, with performances starting in the predawn hours and wrapping up in the late morning.
Conclusion:
The Kyoto Tachibana High School Green Band’s performance in the Rose Parade is a testament to the power of music and dance to bring people together. With their unique blend of music and dance, precision marching, and infectious energy, the band is sure to impress audiences of all ages. As the band’s music director, Fumihiko Yasuda, said, “We want to play really good. We want to enjoy ourselves and we want everyone watching to enjoy themselves.”
