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OKINAWA, Japan - The III Marine Expeditionary Force Band took concert attendees on a musical journey through traditional, cartoon and patriotic melodies during the U.S.-Japan Friendship Concert at Tedako Hall in Naha May 1.
The concert was hosted by the Consulate General of the United States to promote understanding between the U.S. military and the Okinawan people.
“Sometimes the literal fence-line of the base carries into a figurative barrier that does not allow us to see how much we have in common,” said Raymond F. Greene, consul general, Consulate of the U.S., Okinawa. “The Okinawan culture is filled with music.”
Some members of the band see their music as a way to communicate with the world.
“Music is an international language,” said Chief Warrant Officer Stephen Giove, band officer, III MEF Band. “It’s important for them to see the Marine Corps in the community in support of our continued friendship and support.”
The music the band performed included some favorites of the Japanese people.
“We decided to weave Japanese pieces, including Gunkan and Space Ship Yamato, into the program to show our audience that we take them seriously,” Giove said.
Also included were vocal pieces, small ensembles and percussion arrangements using parts of the body to produce sound. Students, families and adults filled the audience.
“I came in support of my home-stay daughter,” said Yoshiko Nishioka, volunteer and host mother to a member of the consulate. “I think there are many barriers and misunderstandings between the Japanese public and the military, and this concert is the beginning of opening doors.”
Since music is universal, there is no language barrier for the message of the band.
“I like to paraphrase Plato when I describe the effect music has on people,” said Sgt. Christopher Calamari, trumpet player, III MEF Band. “Music enters the body through the heart, and makes its way to the inner places of the soul.”
To prepare for this concert, the band has been perfecting their performance for the past three weeks.
“I want the Marines to have fun and enjoy performing,” Giove said. “This will give them an opportunity to see how much their hard work is appreciated.”
At the end of the concert, band members had a meet-and-greet with attendees.
“This will help break the aura of mystery surrounding the military,” Greene said. “We appreciate the band coming out and encouraging Marines to get out and make friends in the community.”
The band’s next free performance is scheduled to be held May 14 in the Okinawa Convention Center at 7 p.m.
| Date Taken: | 05.01.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 05.05.2011 21:08 |
| Story ID: | 69938 |
| Location: | OKINAWA, OKINAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 50 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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