On Saturday 29th October, Soka University’s Pioneer Wind Orchestra performed at the 70th All-Japan Band Competition (University section) held at Fukuoka’s Kitakyushu Soleil Hall and took home their 5th gold medal for the first time in 3 years.

The competition, sponsored by the All-Japan Band Association and Asahi Shimbun, is the biggest symphonic band competition in Japan, where 13 schools from across the country perform after having passed the preliminary rounds.
With Yasuhide Itou conducting, the Pioneer Wind Orchestra performed the free song “Chorale Prelude Fantasia ‘O Mensch, bewein' dein' Sünde groß’” (written by Yasuhide Itou).

Orchestra leader Shirone Kise (Literature 2nd year) said, “So many people supported us, and we were able to win a gold medal and first place in Japan. We’re so grateful. The Pioneer Wind Orchestra will continue to work hard to deliver the sound of encouragement and bravery.”