Event Report: Teen Band Fest Vol.1 Hosted by OKUCHIBA PROJECT

On March 9, 2025, Teen Band Fest Vol.1 was held at the Shimin Fureai Center Grand Hall in Sosa City, Chiba Prefecture.

The event was organized by professional bassist Shinichi Ichikawa, who has been actively working to energize the Toso area of Chiba with music. His goal was to give local elementary, junior high, and high school students the opportunity to experience the joy of performing on a large stage.

⇒ Reports for Shinichi Ichikawa’s Events

Sound House had the honor of participating as a judge in this passionate event, witnessing some truly electrifying performances!

Shot from the rehearsal: Participants performed on a professional stage with expert sound engineers handling the setup

As the doors opened, families and friends from school filled the seats, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere.

One of the unique aspects of this band fest was its ‘one-song challenge’ format. Each band had just one chance to showcase their best performance.

“Let’s make today’s live show the best ever!!”

With the call from the opening band, the audience and other bands gathered in the standing area, turning the venue into a full-fledged live venue. Though it was a contest, everyone understood that enjoying the performance was the essence of a great live show.

List of Participating Bands

Among the participants were high school seniors who had just graduated. Their deep emotions and passion for their final stage performance were evident in every note they played.

After each performance, judges provided immediate feedback. The panel included guitarist Issei Takami and drummer Masaki Hiraishi, both members of Ichikawa’s band, BARAKA.

Their feedback ranged from “That was amazing!” to “Here’s how you can improve even more.” Students listened intently to the warm yet precise advice. A special surprise unique to an event led by Ichikawa was when the judges took the stage mid-event to give live demonstrations and hands-on lessons.

This must be a truly unforgettable experience!

After all the bands had finished their performances, it was time for a live performance by BARAKA before the awards ceremony!
Students gathered around the stage, watching in fascination as the professionals played. They were particularly intrigued by the gear setup at their feet. For these young musicians, it was an invaluable experience.

Then, the long-awaited awards ceremony began.
As the winners were announced, band members rushed onto the stage with excited screams.

Certificates and special prizes from Sound House were handed out to the winners.

Each recipient took a moment to share a few words on the mic. One student emotionally declared, “Our teacher got us these instruments just so we could enter this contest! Thank you, sensei!” The room erupted in warm applause, creating a truly heartfelt moment. It was hard not to get emotional... (teary-eyed).

Witnessing how the goal of a contest can strengthen bonds, we were once again reminded of the importance of having a stage to showcase young talent.

With great success, Vol.1 came to a close.
The next event is scheduled for Sunday, March 1, 2026!

To all teenage bands in OKUCHIBA—why not take the stage next year?

Sound House will continue to support young musicians and their passion for music!

A huge round of applause to all the participating bands—great job!

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