The Japanese Army Staff Band was founded in 1951 under the direction of Takahiro Higuchi and Ichiro Sakai. Originally founded as the Music Corps of the National Police Reserve, the orchestra has since undergone a remarkable development and is now one of the most important representative wind orchestras in Japan. With a strength of 113 musicians, its concert activities extend across the entire country, while it is under the direct high command of the Ministry of Defense and regularly performs at important state occasions.
The CD“Gaudiubilate” is an impressive testimony to the artistic creativity of this traditional orchestra. It combines a selection of fascinating numbers, some of which were created by contemporary composers, and conveys the broad spectrum of the military wind orchestra. The recorded works include:
- Gaudiubilate by Thiemo Kraas: A lively and jubilant piece that bears the title of the CD and immediately captivates the listener.
- Adagio espressivo by Pavel Stanek: A soulful and thoughtful work that impressively expresses the emotional nuances of the orchestra. A musical obituary for the recently deceased composer.
- Cortege Solennel op. 50 by Alexander Glasunov in an arrangement by Leontij Dunaev: a solemn piece that reflects the seriousness and dignity of military ceremonies.
- Second Sinfonietta by Thiemo Kraas: A dynamic work that showcases the technical skill of the musicians.
- Salve Imperator by Julius Fucik in an arrangement by Siefried Rundel: an imposing march that symbolizes the pride and honour of the orchestra.
- Come, Sweet Freedom by James L. Hosay: A lively piece that radiates joie de vivre and optimism.
- Spanish March by Johann Strauss, son in an arrangement by Stefan Schwalgin: a rousing march that reflects the cultural diversity of brass music and a contribution to the Strauss anniversary year 2025.
- And the Rest is Silence by Thiemo Kraas: An artistic reflection that makes the listener think.
- Invercargill by Alex Lithgow, arrangement by Martin Scharnagl: A work that takes up the tradition of marching music and skillfully implements it.
- Wellington’s Victory (The Battle of Vittoria) by Ludwig van Beethoven in an arrangement by Stefan Schwalgin: a dramatic piece that musically traces a historical battle and impressively brings out the energy of the orchestra.
The Stabsmusikkorps has not only made history on a musical level, but has also provided unforgettable sound experiences at numerous state ceremonies and international events. The highlights of its concert activities include the musical accompaniment to the ceremony of the Emperor’s accession to the throne, the wedding parade for the Crown Prince and the funeral of the last Emperor and his wife.
At the Olympic Games in Tokyo, the Winter Olympics in Sapporo and Nagano, the FIFA World Cup and the International Expo, the orchestra demonstrated its ability to connect people with music and build cultural bridges. The first foreign assignment in 2002 at the International Tattoo in Korea earned the staff band great respect and recognition from the Korean people.
The regular concerts in and around the capital, the promenade concerts on the grounds of the Ministry of Defense and concert tours throughout the country ensure that the Staff Music Corps also plays an important cultural role during peacetime.
With its large number of recordings and a dedicated training department that promotes the continuous further training of the musicians, it ensures the high artistic quality of its performances. “Gaudiubilate” is not only a feast for the ears, but also an impressive document of the tradition and innovation of the Japanese Army Staff Band and reflects the rich culture of the military wind orchestra.
