This book will make your experience at the Yokohama Jazz Promenade 10 times more enjoyable!

I'm completely immersed in jazz again tonight.
File.9　The Big Band Encyclopedia (by Koichi Shibata)
Mayuko Niimura (Jazz Cafe Chigusa)

One of Yokohama's most representative jazz events is the "Yokohama Jazz Promenade," held in October. Every year, top-notch musicians from both Japan and abroad gather, and the heart of Yokohama is completely immersed in the world of jazz.

Koichi Shibata, who has served as the general director of this event for many years, was born in 1946 in a metalworking factory in Nishi Ward, Yokohama City, making him a true Yokohama native. Incidentally, the definition of a "Yokohama native" is someone who is straightforward, positive, has a strong sense of loyalty and compassion, and is very caring. Mr. Shibata fits all of these descriptions.
For example, actively putting young musicians on big stages is a manifestation of the "Yokohama spirit." While there is a desire to support young musicians, it doesn't mean they are lenient towards them. Even if there are "discerning" audience members who are initially skeptical, they are quickly drawn into the performance.

Shibata was born in 1946, a turbulent period immediately following the war. In the heart of Yokohama were American occupation forces' housing complexes, and numerous entertainment facilities exclusively for them. These entertainment facilities were essentially clubs, and the club music of the time was jazz. In the chaotic atmosphere unique to a port city, the music of big bands could be heard from all directions, and the whole town must have felt like it was swinging.
Growing up in such an environment, young Shibata became captivated by upbeat swing jazz and powerful big band music.
This summer, Shibata published the Big Band Encyclopedia, a massive 400-page work that introduces 600 bands and 1,300 jazz musicians.
The book launch party, held at a hotel in Naka Ward, Yokohama City, was a great success, with many jazz musicians, from veterans to up-and-coming talents, attending to celebrate.
The venue was filled with laughter from start to finish, a perfect reflection of Shibata's personality. It was also a given that the attendees would mingle and start jamming, glasses in hand. I was able to join them at the end of the party, and I had a wonderful time thinking from the bottom of my heart, "Music is great, jazz is great."
I meant to say "Congratulations, I hope it sells well" with respect, but he replied in his usual manner, "You idiot! Shut up!" But immediately after that, he said "Thank you" with a shy smile.

This year's Yokohama Jazz Promenade will be held over two days, October 12th and 13th. Following the theme of Mr. Shibata's book, numerous big bands will be performing.
Shibata is casting for this jazz performance in the port city of Yokohama. I highly recommend you visit and immerse yourself in the music to your heart's content.