At the end of last month, I had the joy of attending a local mini-concert from Rhythm Society Jazz, the Kyudai jazz circle. The circle was no stranger to me, given the fact that I had managed to catch a last-minute yet energizing glimpse of their event last year at Tenjin, and to Kyudai students, as they were a hit during the Kyudai-sai last year.
The event was held in a remote yet cozy spot at the community center at Ikisan, the place itself surrounded by lush fields and glistening mountains. I joined in a little late and there were little to no spots left at the space.
The whole performance was divided by different sub bands.
The circle has its sub-bands based on the kind of genre they play.
This event at Ikisan featured live performances from “Chococones” which is a trombone-based band, “La Campana” a Latin timba rendition, “Turtlefly” , "Grace notes" and so on
(to know more about their interesting bands and even more interesting band names, do check out their Instagram page: https://instagram.com/qjazz_rhythmsociety?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=)
I couldn't help but groove along to them playing Moanin by Art Blakey, perhaps involuntarily as it is one of my favorites. La Campana was a feast like always, with their everpeeling layers of rich sounds.
I managed to get a hold of the circle’s leader, Kazunoshin Yonemori, on the phone and asked him about how these events take place. “ We usually get offers from places to come and play,” resonating the almost houseful ranging- from- small kids -to -grandpas scenario I saw during this event.
“Our unique point would be that we do both big band and smaller combos (sub-bands)” where I was lucky enough to see the big band in full swing during their December event last year.
I was also particularly surprised to hear that many of the players started learning these instruments, either from their senpai or by themselves, only after joining the circle.
It was a great way ( and cost-effective, this event was free!) to wind up my busy weekend and feel enlivened for the upcoming week. I will be keeping an eye out for their events through their twitter or their website !
Comments