An Osaka-based musical ensemble and others have created videos of songs with instrumental parts omitted that amateur musicians can use for practice.
Dubbed "minus one," videos by the Osaka Shion Wind Orchestra and other organizations have been produced for musicians who may not be able to practice in ensembles due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.
As with songs produced for karaoke, which feature no vocals, rock and jazz recordings with instrumental parts such as bass tracks omitted have long been available for amateur musicians to use for practice purposes. However, it is rare for a professional classical ensemble to produce such recordings.
Two pieces were recorded by the orchestra: "Takarajima," a standard for middle and high school brass bands, and the theme song of the Osaka Metro, which has a partnership with the ensemble.
In addition to a version that includes all instrumental parts, the videos also include six "minus one" versions that omit such instruments as flute and clarinet.
The project was prompted by the cancellation of brass band activities, amateur orchestral performances and ensemble rehearsals around the country.
Orchestra leader Tetsuya Ishii, 41, and others wanted to create something similar to karaoke that brass bands could use to practice anywhere by themselves.
Each of the 31 members recorded audio and video of their parts themselves and the footage was then edited.
The videos have been viewed over 20,000 times since their release in June. "I appreciate the project" and "It's helpful to see the performers' hands" are some of the comments that have been received.
The orchestra, which is planning to make videos of other pieces, said the videos without trumpet and clarinet have been the most popular.
Amateur trumpeter Kensaku Kojiri from Nishinomiya, Hyogo Prefecture, who plays in an ensemble, has been using the videos to practice.
"The opportunity to play with professionals over and over again until you're satisfied is not something that could normally happen," the 45-year-old company owner said.
The Osaka Shion Wind Orchestra is planning to create more "minus one" videos.
"I hope that professionals and amateurs alike will move forward together so that no one gives up on music because they can't perform with other musicians," Ishii said.
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