[History] A roundup of popular set pieces from the All-Japan Band Competition
The brass band competition that wind ensemble players across the country aim for has been held every year.
Each year, the competition organizers provide several set pieces, and when you participate, you may find yourself wondering which one to perform.
Among past set pieces, there are quite a few that continue to be cherished as masterpieces, and it’s common to perform them at regular concerts.
In this article, we’ll introduce all the set pieces from the wind ensemble competition, from the latest selections to popular pieces from the past.
Use it as a reference when choosing your piece for this year’s competition or for your next concert program.
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[Historic] Summary of Popular Set Pieces from the Wind Orchestra Competition (21–30)
March “April Leaf”Kondō Yūsuke
Selected as the second set piece for 2019 was March “April Leaf,” composed by Yusuke Kondo from Kanagawa Prefecture.
It’s a pop-style number that gives a bright, sunny impression throughout, with lively brass tones that really shine.
According to Kondo, he drew inspiration one April while riding a bus, from the fresh green scenery he saw through the window—hence the title.
It’s a piece that lifts your spirits whether you listen to it or perform it!
March ‘Memories Refrain’Itō Shion
A march notable for its dazzling modulations from the very beginning and the lively interplay unique to wind band instrumentation.
With refined tonal writing and beautiful harmonies, it incorporates contemporary elements to create an ambitious work.
While honoring tradition, it brings in a fresh breeze—showcasing the talent of the young composer, Shion Ito.
Published by the All-Japan Band Association in February 2025 and selected as the 2025 All Japan Band Competition Required Piece III, its appeal is spreading through performances by ensembles across the country.
This piece enables performers to rediscover the allure of their own instruments and offers a heart-stirring experience that captures the joy of ensemble playing.
[Historic] Summary of Popular Set Pieces from the Wind Band Competition (31–40)
To the Sea… for Wind BandMisawa Kei
This piece, which begins with a trombone war-scatter that evokes the eerie mood of the night sea, was selected as Contest Piece No.
4 in 2006.
After the opening atmosphere, the development shifts dramatically: the brass present a refreshing, flowing melody of great beauty, embellished by intricate woodwind and percussion figures that lend a touch of brilliance.
In the middle section, each section hands off mellow phrases in turn, building toward a moving melody.
The latter part features a marked tempo increase and a striking change in character, making it highly rewarding to hear—so be sure to listen to the piece all the way through.
March Shining RoadKiuchi Ryo
March Shining Road opens with the brilliant timbre of brass that evokes a bright future.
Selected as the 2017 Required Piece II, it was composed by Ryo Kimura.
As a march that unfolds with a steady rhythm, the key is to be mindful of the changes in scenes throughout the piece and add accents for each instrument.
The result is an orthodox yet powerful orchestral sound in which the harmonies of percussion and wind instruments resonate brilliantly.
Pay special attention to the trumpet and saxophone parts as they build excitement toward the climax.
AyersTajima Tsutomu
Airs is a piece with a majestic yet deeply moving charm.
It was selected as the second required piece in 2004.
The composer is Tsutomu Tajima, who has written numerous works for wind band and is also dedicated to education as an elementary school principal.
Some may know him from pieces like Piccolo March and WISH for Wind Orchestra.
Airs has a relaxed atmosphere that brings a sense of calm to the listener.
Brilliant, showy wind band music is wonderful, of course, but pieces that let you savor the sound like this one are lovely too.
Prelude to the Music FestivalAlfred Reed
The piece selected as the required work in 1970 was “A Festival Prelude,” composed by the American composer Alfred Reed.
It’s frequently performed in Japan, so many people with wind ensemble experience will likely be familiar with it.
It opens with a fanfare motif, showcasing the brilliant tones of the brass.
The main theme unfolds in an orchestral sound led by woodwinds, saxophones, and cornets.
A second fanfare then follows, allowing listeners to savor the grandeur of the performance more deeply.
Please lend an ear to its dynamic, beautiful sonorities, beloved across generations.
Path of the Pegasus ~ for Wind Band (2008 Contest Piece IV)Kataoka Hiroaki
When it comes to powerful yet beautiful wind band pieces, many people will surely think of this masterpiece.
Composed by Hiroaki Kataoka, who is also active as a percussionist, it portrays the story of a Pegasus soaring through the heavens.
After a tranquil opening, the music shifts dramatically into a development brimming with the exhilaration of taking flight—enough to set your heart racing.
From the calm middle section, it builds once more toward a dazzling, climactic fanfare—truly breathtaking! This work was performed on many stages as a required piece for the 2008 All-Japan Band Competition.
The album “Tenma no Michi” features a powerful performance by the JMSDF Yokosuka Band.
It’s a piece worthy of headlining any concert, offering the joy of storytelling through sound and the tangible thrill of captivating an audience.