Band History

The USARJ Band boasts a proud history of service which spans six decades. It was activated in 1941 as the 96th Coastal Artillery Band at Camp Davis, North Carolina, and later redesignated as the USARJ Band. During the Second World War the band participated in the Western Pacific Campaign. Since then the band has served in Japan.

The USARJ Band regularly performs a variety of music for military and public relations functions for the Japanese public as well as the American community in Japan. Each year the band performs for a total audience in excess of three million people. In addition to performing for the Camp Zama community, the band regularly travels throughout Japan. Past performances have included the Japan Self Defense Force Marching Festival at Tokyo Budokan, Kanagawa Music Festival, Kure Port Festival, Sendai Tanabata Festival, and Camp Zama's Bonodori, Cherry Blossom, and Independence Day Celebrations.

The band's thirty-nine members make up nine different ensembles. The concert and ceremonial bands, consisting of all 39 members, perform concert, ceremonial, and parade music. The twenty piece stage band provides nothing but the best in big band jazz. Our rock band, jazz combo,and dixieland band frequently perform for official social functions. The brass and woodwind quintets, and the low brass quartet are often asked to provide background music for many different occasions.

The USARJ Band's versatility comes from the diverse backgrounds, education, and experience of its members. Many of the musicians in the band hold college degrees; some were music educators or freelance musicians before enlisting in the Army.

While enjoying its rich heritage and proud history of service, the USARJ Band looks forward to a bright future of continued musical service in Japan.

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