Sound! Euphonium: Ensemble Contest

Alongside the traditional summer brass band competition, the ensemble contest—affectionately known as "Ancon"—serves as another thrilling stage for musical excellence. Unlike the large-scale format of standard competitions, Ancon features smaller groups performing together, offering a distinct and intimate charm that highlights the unique synergy between a handful of musicians. To earn a spot in the Kyoto prefectural tournament, each school must first hold an internal preliminary round to select its official representative team. For the Kitauji High School Concert Band, this selection process proves far from simple. With over fifty active members vying for a limited number of spots, the club is immediately confronted with a variety of logistical and interpersonal challenges. The sheer size of the ensemble complicates every decision, turning what should be a straightforward audition into a complex trial of leadership and coordination. At the center of this storm is Kumiko, who has recently stepped into the demanding role of club president. As she navigates the competing ambitions of her peers and the pressure of representing her school, she must find a way to guide Kitauji through the grueling preliminary rounds. Her tenure begins not with triumph, but with struggle, marking the start of a difficult yet defining chapter for the newly appointed leader.