The Mizuho Youth Symphonic Band performs in their first official Air Force Ceremony

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Lynsie Lorenz
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  Members of the Mizuho Youth Symphonic Band treated Team Yokota to a performance at the 374th Maintenance Squadron Change of Command in Hangar 15, here June 11.

The Mizuho Youth Symphonic Band has been around since 1969 when Hisatoshi Muta, the band conductor, established the band as a way for students to continue practicing music long after they had graduated school.

"At the time, I was a middle school music teacher, and there weren't any bands like this one," said Mr. Muta. "I wanted my students to continue to play music after they graduated, and I wanted the citizens of Mizuho to enjoy the music, so I established this band."

Through his 41 years of conducting the band, Mr. Muta has had many great memories.

"My most memorable moment was when our band won first place in a Japan-wide music competition," said Mr. Muta.

The band has since been a success. Keichi Hiruma, the chief of the Mizuho Youth Symphonic Band members, joined the band in 1985 as a trumpet player while he was still in high school.

"I was a member of the music club when I was in elementary and middle school," said Mr. Hiruma. "I wanted to continue my music practice when I went into high school, so I joined the Mizuho Youth Symphonic Band."

Mr. Hiruma feels that it is a privilege to be a part of the band.

"I like music, and I really like playing my instrument," said Mr. Hiruma. "I feel rewarded when people applaud after we play music."

The Mizuho Youth Symphonic band plays for functions in the town of Mizuho, Japan, and plays a variety of music. This was their first time playing for an official Air Force ceremony.

"Muta-san's musicians play from the heart," said Col. Christopher S. Mardis, Commander of the 374th Maintenance Group and the presiding official for Friday's ceremony. "Given the Maintenance Group's close relationship with the people of Mizuho Town, the Mizuho Band was the obvious choice to perform today; they are the perfect embodiment of the energetic spirit of Mizuho Town as well as the spirit of our friendship. Their performance was not only a heartfelt farewell for the outgoing commander, but the perfect welcome for the new commander as well."