(EN)New Year Concert in Yokosuka

I had the opportunity to take part again after five years. It was truly a wonderful time—something that cannot really be expressed in just a few words.

Many of the people who came to the concert also had some connection with Yokosuka.I felt as if I received a lot of energy from the sea breeze and the land.

It was a good opportunity to recharge before returning to Belgium and continuing the year there with renewed energy.

The Yokosuka New Year Concert is not only enjoyable; it also comes with its own challenges.

The arranger, Yoshiko Uchida, always creates moments where each instrument has something to highlight, so there is also a certain sense of tension.

This year I had several demanding parts:

• Boléro on the shinobue (I would like to try it again one day!)

• the opening solo of the Cavalleria Rusticana Intermezzo

• the soprano counter-melody in the Brindisi from La Traviata

It was a moment that kept me fully focused.

The phrase “adults seriously playing” describes the atmosphere perfectly.

Musicians from my Miura City (Next of Yokosuka City)

Backstage was lively and had a very Japanese atmosphere. Perhaps because we shared the same hometown connections, language, and music, the conversations were constant and there was a lot of laughter.

In addition to classical pieces, we also played nostalgic music such as Glenn Miller and “Takarajima.” Many people probably played these pieces in high school wind bands. Living in Europe, I mostly perform classical or Japanese music, so it felt quite nostalgic.

Some of my old wind band friends from high school and relatives came to listen. The concert had a serious side, but the audience atmosphere was very warm.

Starting the year with such an opportunity makes me feel that it will be a good year ahead.

Concert in Yokohama with Marc Grauwels▶︎

◀︎ Sunset Live at Yokosuka Port Market