Key Facts
• Kagoshima Credit Union Wind Orchestra founded in July 1935 by Seiji Kuroda.
• Transition from silent to talkie films led to job losses for film musicians.
• Orchestra employed displaced musicians to boost workplace morale and camaraderie.
• Activities paused during WWII due to loss of instruments and scores in air raids.
• Postwar revival included performances at schools and community events to aid recovery.
• 1953 photos show performances at Kurino Station and Yokogawa Elementary School.
• Renamed “Kakimotoji Credit Union Wind Orchestra” during the 1950s.
• Founding spirit continues; orchestra performs 20 times annually at schools and festivals.
• Received the National Credit Union Association’s Social Contribution Award in 1998.
• December 20, 2024: Charity concert planned at Kawasho Hall, Kagoshima City.
• Open call for school bands to participate; applications close by August 31, 2024.
Summary
The Kagoshima Credit Union Wind Orchestra, celebrating its 90th anniversary, was founded in 1935 to employ musicians displaced by the transition from silent to talkie films. Despite interruptions during WWII, the orchestra revived postwar, contributing to community recovery through music. Archival photos from 1953 highlight their performances at local schools and stations. Continuing its legacy, the orchestra performs 20 times annually and received national recognition in 1998. A charity concert is scheduled for December 20, 2024, inviting school bands to join, with applications open until August 31, 2024.
