Score
This piece, originally performed by Hiromi Go, became a major hit 40 years ago, in 1984. It was also featured as a theme song for the then Japanese National Railways (now JR). The 1980s were a vibrant time for Japan, with the country leading the world economically during the bubble era. While international travel was booming, this campaign likely sought to inspire people to explore the exotic and fantastic destinations within Japan itself.
Performing this song in today’s era offers an opportunity to feel pride in our country, imagine a hopeful future, and dream of endless possibilities. Play it with energy, power, and confidence!
The opening count-in, "One, two," is marked in the drum score but should be called out by a leader in the group. Follow it with a loud, "One, two, three, hey!" Don’t forget to raise your fist when shouting "Hey!" The "Oku-sen-man" part is arranged for three-part harmony. You can assign these parts within each section or across the entire ensemble, adjusting octaves as needed to suit everyone’s vocal range. Sing it out with gusto!
Performance NotesFrom Section "A": For the four measures beginning with fp and building in a crescendo, make it dramatic enough to captivate the audience.
Section "C": Horns and trombones should deliver a bold, wild ff.
Section "D": Trumpet players could play this as a solo if desired.From the 5th Measure of "G": Infuse a touch of Latin American flair, like rumba or tango. Play with a bright and precise rhythm.
Section "J": The "Japan!" shout is notated at concert pitch D, but feel free to shout it at the highest and most powerful pitch you can manage. Raise your fist and smile as you shout!
Section "K": This is a saxophone section soli. Feel free to stand up and showcase your energy - dance if you like!
Section "L": The trumpet soli here should evoke a fanfare for the new Reiwa era. Play rhythmically sharp and let the sound ring triumphantly with the spirit of "Ganbare, Nippon! (Go, Japan!)"
Section "N": This section transitions to a classical harmonic texture. Slow the tempo and let the sound resonate like a choral arrangement, feeling the interplay of harmony and counter-melody. When returning to a tempo, ensure the chromatic woodwind ascent is prominent, and the final eighth-note on the fourth beat must be accentuated and in unison.
Ending ("U"): The finale is driven by a vibrant, wild drum part that unifies the ensemble, bringing the piece to a grand conclusion. Ensure the entire band feels unified and that the energy crescendos toward a celebratory finish.
Overall, the drum part should maintain a tight rhythm throughout. This arrangement is set at a slightly slower tempo than the original vocal version. By maintaining a steady beat and listening to the ensemble's resonance, the rhythm will stay grounded, and the overall performance will come together cohesively..(Ken'ichi Mitsuda)
