Okinawa Wind Symphony to perform on Kadena

Photo By Sgt. Alyssa N. Gunton | Members of the Okinawa Wind Symphony play their trumpets during a rehearsal at the Ryukyu Middle School on Kadena Air Base Feb. 28. The band rehearsed for their second concert, which was held March 3 at the school. The symphony is a community band made up of all ages and nationalities. The requirements to become a member are access to U.S. military installations on Okinawa and a high school level musical ability.  

KADENA AIR BASE, OKINAWA, JAPAN

03.05.2012

Story by Lance Cpl. Alyssa N. Gunton 

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

KADENA AIR FORCE BASE, Japan - The Okinawa Wind Symphony is a recently established community band that was created by Chief Warrant Officer Stephen B. Giove, the band officer of the III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Terry Knowles, a music teacher at Ryukyu Middle School.

Giove and Knowles formed the band once they collaborated on the idea of a community band and realized the many benefits of having one, said Giove.

“Community bands build friendships (with) people in our communities we wouldn’t ordinarily come in contact with,” said Knowles. “It provides a musical outlet for many who may have not had an opportunity to play their instrument in an organized ensemble since high school or college.”

The band consists of educators, Department of Defense personnel, military musicians, members of the local community and civilians, said Cpl. Mardia A. Tompo, a clarinet player for the III MEF band.

The band is open to musicians who are allowed access on a U.S. military installation. Musicians must also have a few years of experience, said Giove. High school students are able to join; however, a current band member must be their sponsor.

“Prospective Okinawa Wind Symphony band (members) should contact (Giove) or myself to indicate their interest in playing with the band,” said Knowles.

With the performance level of music the band plays, interested members should be able to play at least a strong high school performance level, said Knowles.

The Okinawa Wind Symphony rehearses weekly at Ryuku Middle School and performs for the community every couple of months, said Tompo. The band last performed on Camp Foster.

The band has a very strong bond amongst the members, said Knowles. The bond comes from a coordinated effort to reach the ultimate artistic goal together.

“This band gives the entire military and civilian community an opportunity to come together and share a beautiful musical experience,” said Knowles. “Bringing people together for something as positive as a concert is always a great thing.”

For more information, please email [e-mail] or call 645-9139.

• Date Taken: 03.05.2012
• Date Posted: 03.07.2012 19:47
• Story ID: 84900
• Location: KADENA AIR BASE, OKINAWA, JP