Message from the President
Dear Band Directors, Members, Bands, and Music Enthusiasts,
It is with great pleasure that I extend a warm greeting to all of you on behalf of the Asia Pacific Band Directors’ Association (APBDA). As we prepare for our upcoming 22nd APBDA Conference in Singapore in 2025, I would like to take this opportunity to share some exciting developments and extend a heartfelt invitation to join us in what promises to be a remarkable event.
Successful Board Meeting in Singapore
Recently, from the 28th to 30th of July 2024, we had the privilege of hosting 17 of our esteemed board members here in Singapore for an important board meeting. This gathering provided us with the opportunity to discuss and update each other on the preparations for the upcoming APBDA Conference in 2025. The energy and enthusiasm shared during our time together have only strengthened our resolve to make the 2025 conference an unforgettable experience for all involved.
Invitation to the 22nd APBDA Conference in 2025
I am delighted to extend a formal invitation to all bands, band directors, and music enthusiasts across the Asia Pacific region and beyond to join us in Singapore from the 22nd to the 26th of August 2025. This conference will be a celebration of the rich and diverse band music culture that unites us all. With over 2,000 participants expected, including some of the finest bands from across the region, the 22nd APBDA Conference will be a platform for performance, learning, and cultural exchange.
Our program includes a wide range of activities designed to inspire and educate, including concerts, outreach performances, panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions. These events will provide invaluable opportunities for networking, professional development, and the exchange of ideas among musicians and directors from diverse backgrounds.
The Importance of Our Mission
As we look forward to 2025, we are reminded of the mission that guides APBDA: to promote the development and improvement of band music, foster cultural exchange, and contribute to world peace through our shared love of music. The 22nd APBDA Conference in Singapore will serve as a testament to this mission, bringing together a community of musicians who are passionate about their craft and committed to making a positive impact in the world.
Join Us in Singapore
Singapore, known for its vibrant arts scene and rich cultural heritage, is the perfect backdrop for this international gathering. We are confident that the city’s world-class venues and warm hospitality will provide an inspiring environment for all attendees. Whether you are a seasoned band director, an aspiring musician, or a dedicated supporter of the arts, we invite you to be part of this extraordinary event.
Let us come together in Singapore in 2025 to celebrate the power of music, to learn from each other, and to build lasting friendships that transcend borders. I look forward to welcoming you all to what will undoubtedly be an unforgettable conference.
Thank you, and see you in Singapore!
Warm regards,
Jovan Neo
President, Asia Pacific Band Directors’ Association (APBDA)
Message from the Honorary President
Asian Pacific Band Director’s Association is the first international organization in Asia to promote band music during the past almost half century, APBDA reached magnificent achievements by hosting conferences at different countries or regions, clinics and concerts or forums brought huge influence to band directors from all different countries.
The love of music and friendship between all members are always the most precious values of our members.
We welcome all wind music lovers joining us, by visiting our website to get information about the activities of APBDA and join our conference.
YEH Shu Han
Honorary President of APBDA
Message from the Honorary President Emeritus
Dear APBDA Band Directors of Asia and the Pacific Ocean Coast,
I deeply appreciate and congratulate on the great work in opening the new website of APBDA by Mr Brand Tan of Singapore and Mr. Keiichi Kurokawa of Japan plus some other persons.
I am sure that the APBDA website will provide more new and important information for APBDA’s future Activities.
This time I just wanted to inform APBDA of past activities for readers.
The history of APBDA began with the idea of the Japanese Band Directors’ Association (JBA), which was established in 1967. Inspired by Paul Yoder, a past president of The American Bandmasters Association, the JBA sought to foster exchange conferences with foreign band organizations. These efforts led to joint conventions with organizations such as the American Bandmasters Association in Honolulu, Hawaii in 1974 and the Korean Band Association in Seoul, Korea in 1975.
The first official conference was held in Tokyo, Japan in 1978 with the name of the Southeast Asian Band Director’s Convention, with subsequent conferences held in various locations including Korea, the Philippines, and Thailand. In 1990, the organization changed its name to the Asia and Pacific Band Directors’ Association (APBDA)and conferences were held every two years.
Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, APBDA continues to hold conferences to facilitate collaboration and exchange among band directors in the region.
(For detailed information on APBDA, please see the History page on this website)
Thank you for taking the time to read through this information.
Toshio Akiyama
Honorary President Emeritus of APBDA