Who We Are
The San Jose Metropolitan Band (SJMB) is a community concert band made up of more than 50 members of all ages. Our group provides an opportunity for South Bay residents to participate in large ensemble playing while also serving the community. We give performances all around the Santa Clara Valley, playing a mix of symphonic classics, show tunes, big band, contemporary works, marches, and seasonal music.
Our mission, as stated in the band bylaws:
to promote and develop an instrumental concert band;
to provide musical instruction for members and the public; and
to present concerts before the public.
Our Conductor
Ken Nakamoto is the Music Director for the San Jose Metropolitan Band. Ken received his Bachelor's of Music Education and Euphonium Performance from San Jose State University. During his time there, Ken had the privilege of studying with Dr. Matt Tropman and Prof. Thomas Hornig. At the core of his artistic vision, Ken seeks to reimagine the concert band for the modern stage. He is an advocate for contemporary music, has helped commission new works, and has led several premieres with his ensembles.
Currently, Ken serves as the Director of Bands at Los Gatos High School and oversees the entire program. At Los Gatos Ken is responsible for teaching the jazz band, the marching band, and all three concert bands. His professional affiliations include the California Music Educators Association (CMEA) and the California Orchestra Directors Association (CODA) where he serves as a board member.
Outside of his duties with the Metropolitan Band, he is an active musician in the Bay Area. Currently he is serving as Principal Baritone in the San Francisco Brass Band.
Our History
Founded in 1967, the San Jose Metropolitan Band (SJMB) has provided over 50 years of community service to the Santa Clara Valley. Over the years the band has performed for social and civic organizations, community activities, conventions, and charitable causes in the Bay Area. Especially popular with audiences are the patriotic concerts for Memorial Day, the Fourth of July parade, and our Christmas performances. Some of the Band's regular annual clients include Los Gatos Memorial Park, San Jose's Metropolitan Adult Education Program (MAEP), and Help One Child.
The San Jose Metropolitan Band is proud to be of service to the communities of the Silicon Valley and surrounding areas.