School Life
Music
music at Marist
At MBIS, Music is more than just a subject - it's a joyful journey of creativity, expression, and collaboration. Our music program nurtures lifelong appreciation for the arts.
Music at MBIS helps students grow not only as musicians but as balanced, confident, and empathetic individuals. Participation in music supports:
Creativity and Problem-solving through composition, improvision, and reflection.
Collaboration and Communication through ensemble work and seasonal concerts.
Cultural Appreciation through exposure to diverse musical traditions both from within Japan and overseas.
BRING YOUR SOUND TO THE STAGE
Beyond the classroom, our after-school music clubs offer exciting opportunities for students to enhance skills, connect with peers, and experience the joy of performance.
Beginner Band is the perfect starting point for young musicians eager to learn an instrument. Students will develop strong musical foundations and play together in a fun, supportive environment.
Students with a passion for modern music can shine in the Rock Band. This high-energy group performs popular rock and pop songs, learning the essentials of rhythm, teamwork, and live performance.
The Jazz Band offers students the chance to explore improvision, swing rhythms, and classic jazz styles. Open to experienced players, this ensemble focuses on expression, creativity, and collaboration.
After School Music Clubs
Students can learn or advance in a variety of instruments. Small group lessons and individualized coaching help each student progress at their own pace.
BEGINNER BAND
(WOODWIND/BRASS)
The Beginner Band offers students without prior musical and instrumental instruction to pick up one of four instruments: flute, clarinet, trumpet or trombone. In this program, they will be taught the basics of sound production, music theory, as well as individual and group performance skills.
They will have opportunities to perform as a band in the school’s Spring Arts Festival in April. The instrumental rental program allows for students to take their rented instruments home for practice. As learning an instrument takes considerable dedication and commitment, students who enrol are expected to attend the weekly sessions and also to practise regularly at home.
ROCK BAND
MBIS Rock Band is an exciting opportunity for students to collaborate, develop their musical skills, and experience what it’s like to play in a band. This activity is designed for students who already have some fundamental ability on their instrument or voice. Instead, our focus will be on working together as bands—rehearsing songs, exploring different genres, and preparing for potential performances throughout the year. If you’re ready to make music with others and take your playing to the next level, Rock Band is for you!
JAZZ BAND
The Jazz Band allows for intermediate and advanced musicians to perform as an advanced ensemble under the guidance of a professional jazz musician, Mr Ryo Hatakeyama.
Besides performing form music scores, more advanced students are also taught the art of improvision, which is the true heart of jazz music. This involves the player creating music on the spot, based on the style of the piece, and performing it impromptu with little preparation, allowing for exciting and creative performances. In addition to ensemble playing, many pieces allow for impressive solos.
The Jazz Band performs regularly for school events, including Food Fair, Winter Band Concert, and the Spring Arts Festival.
Music Club
Members of Marist Music Clubs perform at school conterts and community events throughout the year.