U.S. Army Japan Band's Farewell Performance at Tokyo's Budokan

In an emotional farewell, the U.S. Army Japan Band graced the stage of Tokyo's iconic Budokan arena for one final performance during the Japan Self-Defense Force Marching Festival. This concluded their longstanding tradition of participating in this annual event. On November 17 and 18, they marked the end of their 42-year involvement in these concerts, as the band will be disbanded the following year.

A Long History of Performances

Since 1981, the USARJ Band had been a regular feature at the festival, contributing their musical talents each year, with the exception of the festival's cancellation in 2020 and 2021 owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. The USARJ Band, which has been active since 1957, has had a prominent presence at the prestigious venue that can house 14,000 attendees, making this final performance a significant historical moment for the members.

Shared Memories and a Bittersweet Goodbye

Staff Sgt. Nicholas Miller, who has performed twice in the festival, expressed his mixed emotions about being part of the band's final show. He emphasized how appreciative they were for the long-standing opportunity to collaborate with talented musicians and dedicated staff. The festival, renowned as a favorite among the band members, provided a unique platform for engaging with a substantial Japanese audience through a rich diversity of music.

Reflecting on the experience, Miller stressed the enjoyment derived from interacting with various bands and audiences, despite feeling saddened by the proximity of the band's last act at the Budokan. Their final performance left a lasting impression on his heart, marking a successful culmination to their Budokan journey.

Honoring the Host Country

For Chief Warrant Officer 3 Matthew David, the band's commander and a first-time festival participant, performing at the Budokan was an immense privilege and a chance to represent the United States in Japan. Their performance included a song from an anime series, deliberately chosen to pay homage to their host country and to resonate with the audience. The powerful connection between the music and the audience was palpable, affirming the universal language of music as a medium for human connection, according to David.

The JSDF Marching Festival has a storied legacy, beginning in 1963 and consistently choosing Budokan as its venue since 1973. Over the years, the event has featured military bands from across the globe, including the U.S., Australia, France, Germany, India, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, all contributing to the festival's vibrant international appeal.

USARJ, Budokan, Tokyo