This was the scene during the annual Japan Self-Defense Force Music Festival Nov. 19.

The event included members of the III Marine Expeditionary Force Band, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Central Band, Japan Air Self-Defense Force Central Band, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Central Band, and the U.S. Army Japan Band, along with civilian musicians from throughout Japan.

This year, the festival was held in honor of those who lost their lives during the Great East Japan Earthquake and subsequent tsunami.

During intermissions, video interviews from JSDF service members taken during the aftermath of the disaster were played on screens throughout the arena.

“This year’s festival is different than usual because of the earthquake and tsunami disaster,” said Sgt. Yayoi Takahashi, a flutist player with the JASDF Central Band. “When I play, I am reminded of that. Through the performance we can introduce to civilians what we do, and through music we can convey our message.”

Each band performed individually then united with the others for the finale in a mass performance. 

“When all the bands come together it’s like ingredients in a gourmet dish,” said Staff Sgt. Alex J. Bush, a sousaphonist with the III MEF Band. “You have ingredients that are good on their own, but when you put them together you have something awesome.”

The way the bands united mirrors the way the Japanese and U.S. military work together off stage, said Bush.

“During Operation Tomadachi we were working toward a common goal, trying to rebuild,” said Bush.

The fact there is interaction between the Japanese and U.S. military on Okinawa is very important. That is why they are an important part of this festival, said Takahashi.

The musicians are proud to represent their individual bands, but enjoy the joint performance.

“I feel like I’m representing our service,” said Takahashi. “When playing with the other bands, the atmosphere is friendlier. We rather enjoy performing with the other bands.”