Original subtitles

I see.

Yeah.

Sorry.

Another time then.

Yeah.

Bye bye!

-Bye bye!

The snail was this big!

Those doesn't exist!

Delivery!

I can open it, right?

Shindou...?

To Asuka

To Asuka

To Asuka

To Asuka

To Asuka

A trumpet?

Pretty.

Here's something.

Euphonium?

Euphonium.

To Asuka

All right. President, would you like to say anything?

Sensei...

Yes, Tanaka-san?

I'd like a word before the President.

I'm going to be completely honest.

I really don't want to lose.

I don't want it to be over with us saying "I'm glad we made it to Kansai."

Now that we're here, I want to take this all the way,

and let the whole nation hear Kitauji!

So, everyone...

Let's take everything we've learned through practicing and give it our all!

Yes ma'am!

Todoketai Melody

Kumiko!

Hiding in a place like this...

Performance!

Immidiately running off somewhere...

What's that supposed to mean? I'm not a kid.

You're being childish right now.

Well, Reina is so grown up.

That's so irritating...

Welcome to the Kitauji High School Wind Ensemble.

Just the other day, they performed at the Kansai Regional...

Look! Over there.

See you later.

It's almost time... -Yeah.

This is nerve-wracking.

Kumiko Oumae...

Asuka-senpai...

Aren't you a bit late?

The bathroom? -Uh... Yeah...

What? You nervous?

Yeah, a bit.

How cute.

You're still just a first year, after all.

However, today you'll be playing without me.

I'm counting on you two for the euphonium.

Yes.

Okay.

You're in quite a good mood, aren't you Senpai?

Hmm? That's because of...

The Nationals! That makes me happy!

It does.

You really like the Wind Ensemble don't you, Senpai?

Hmm... I wonder about that.

Oumae-chan, do you like the euphonium?

Huh... Um...

Asking me this again?

It feels kind of intimidating...

I do. I love it.

I don't care how we do in the contest.

Just kidding.

Asuka...

Yeah yeah, I'm coming.

Enjoy the cultural festival!

Uh... Okay.

We're counting on you.

Leave it to me.

We'd like to give our thanks to our teachers and guardians,

and everyone else who've helped us.

Thank you very much.

The National Wind Ensemble Competition

will begin at the end of October, in Nagoya.

We will continue to work hard in hopes of bringing home more good news.

Now, for our final piece, "Gakuen Tengoku."

We, the Kitauji High School Wind Ensemble were considered weak.

Sign: North High Festival Wind Ensemble Concert

But this spring we got a new advisor, Taki-sensei. And with his guidance,

We've actually made it to the nationals.

Good job.

Ooh... Good job...

Auntie came too.

Huh, I don't notice.

She might come to the classroom.

Whaaat?

You two lovebirds...

Please stop, Natsuki-senpai.

It's been a while since we've played.

We haven't since SanFes.

Right? It's good stuff.

Okay, The wind ensemble gather 'round!

Everyone please leave after you've finished cleaning up.

After that can the boys please carry the big instruments out?

Yes!

And also...

Everyone! At a time like this, you should just stay calm and take a good breather.

We're aiming for the nationals here.

There's hard practice waiting.

Got it? -Yes!

Alright!

That was so Asuka-senpai.

Normally one would say "Enjoy the festivities" or something, right?

Right.

It was so cool that she could almost reach the moon!

Yeah! Alright, let's have some fun!

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT ROOM

What are you doing after this, Reina?

I haven't decided yet.

Then you can come with our class!

Yeah! Come on! -It's gonna be fun!

I can come back! I'm so happy.

I see.

I'll work my hardest to support Kitauji!

I expect nothing less!

Yes!

Excuse us.

Let's tidy up.

I don't care how we do in the contest.

Asuka.

What are you doing until you're on duty? -Hmm...

First, let's get something to eat.

Tanaka Asuka-senpai.

"Eat" you say?

She's the bass section leader, and vice president.

Doesn't this look fun?

Which one?

She's an admired and reliable third year member.

Let's meet up at the entrance. -Yeah.

Come on, let's get going! -Of course.

That sort of senpai never showed an unfriendly face.

Stop laughing already!

I mean!

But that's just a facade she puts up.

You had a costume and everything!

I had no choice.

It looked good on you.

I'm always wondering...

It didn't suit you.

Just what does she see from her perspective?

Kumiko-chan?

Hurry up and put that away.

Huh? Sorry.

But that was a bit scary to think about.

I'm home.

Welcome home.

Yeah, thanks.

Sorry, I'm late.

Are we having stew today? -Yeah.

Hey mom...

Huh? Looks tasty.

What's up?

Oh that's right, Asuka.

The entrance exams are coming up right? -Huh?

I expect that you'll be doing your best.

Sorry, what did you want?

It's nothing.

MUSIC ROOM

All right. Make sure the fortissimo at L doesn't sound muddy.

Yes, sir!

And that snare roll needs to be tighter.

Yes, sir!

That will be all for today.

Don't work too hard on the cultural festival.

There's a camp scheduled this week,

Please take care of your health so you can attend in top condition.

Yes, sir!

Please do try.

Yes, sir...

All right, I'm going to go over the camp itinerary.

Section leaders, please come to the usual classroom.

Kumiko-chan!

Let's go home together.

Uh, okay.

After the cultural festival, I couldn't stop thinking about Asuka-senpai.

Something like that can happen?

Yeah, I was there!

Was that really a joke?

Two of them really came out!

If it is true...

Eh? Were you dreaming?

Then someone, somewhere must've hurt her feelings really bad.

It's true!

See you tomorrow.

See you.

But I don't like having thoughts like that.

Bye bye.

I'm home.

Ah, Welcome home.

Huh? Dad's here.

He's working early tomorrow.

Here, honey.

Oh right, I called Mamiko today,

When she heard you were going to the nationals she was overjoyed!

She congratulated you.

Kumiko. It's good that the club is doing well, but are you studying properly?

Well, it's going okay I guess...

What's with that answer?

When Mamiko was your age, she stopped playing instruments and started studying hard.

Why don't you learn from her?

Yeah, Yeah...

Onee-chan is so amazing.

Again with that attitude...

Annoying...

Dinner's almost ready.

You're quitting the trombone?

That's none of your business.

Whatever...

I have to concentrate.

There's no time to breathe here.

It's so tempting to rush.

Why don't we take a staggered breath?

Goto, when do you breathe?

Here.

Hmm,

Then, how about we have Goto breathe two bars after that?

You don't have to force yourself to get through this whole phrase, Riko-chan.

Got it.

What about contrabass?

Sapphire Kawashima is perfect.

It's Midori!

Okay, let's try again with those changes in mind.

Excuse me...

But first...

Kumiko Oumae!

You seem a bit off today. Is something wrong?

You can talk to your dear sister about it.

I won't bite.

You do, though.

Just spill it!

Ow, ow, ow.

After traveling through the late summer heat,

we started our 2 nights and 3 days at the training camp.

Practice Room

All right, breathing exercises!

Take a deep breath, and push the air as far as you can when you exhale.

We get together in the mornings to do breathing exercises and vocal warm-ups.

Then we move on to sectional practice.

And in the afternoon, it's non-stop rehearsal.

All right, let's do ten in a row this time.

Yes, sir!

By "ten in a row," he means playing the required piece and free-choice piece

back-to-back, ten times in a row.

It takes twelve minutes to perform both pieces.

With a two-minute break between each piece,

this drill takes over two and a half hours to complete.

By the time we're done, everyone's exhausted.

All right, let's take twenty.

Twenty minutes, huh? I think I'll go play on my own a bit!

Holy crap...

All right, that's enough.

Euphoniums.

Yes, sir.

Please play that part together for the Kansai Competition.

Your sense of stability is coming back, Oumae-san.

Please don't forget that feeling.

Yes, sir!

You did it.

Yes!

How To Fold Your Futon

Being a third-year means that this year is your last...

Yeah.

I haven't thought about that.

How they will be gone after this year.

Haruka-senpai, Kaori-senpai,

Asuka-senpai too.

Hey Reina, do you like the trumpet?

Of course I do.

Why do you ask?

Asuka-senpai asked me the same question.

What did you answer?

Once again, I was too afraid give a clear answer...

That's so like you, Kumiko.

I should've brought a pillow...

Pretty.

A euphonium?

Asuka-senpai...

It was a piece that made you feel strange. So warm, yet so lonely.

It managed to convey a myriad of emotions.

All right, everyone.

We'll be focusing on full-band rehearsals,

especially on the days that are double-circled on the schedule.

Understood?

Yes, sir!

That's all for today.

Thank you very much.

Prepar

ations

Station

Concert

Station concert, huh?

We're playing in that open area, aren't we?

But did it have to be now, right before nationals?

Some of the section leaders wanted to focus on the competition,

but Taki-sensei said we should cherish every opportunity we have to perform.

I've never played in a place like that before.

It's gonna be fun, right? -Yeah!

You're in a good mood, Hazuki-chan.

Yeah.

It's a lot of fun playing with the whole ensemble, isn't it?

Huh? Where's Kumiko-chan?

She just left. She has to collect notebooks today.

Excuse me...

What will do you to make this right?!

I'm sorry.

Why are you apologizing?

They owe us an apology!

Quit shouting, Mom.

Can't you see that this is more important for my child right now?

It'd be one thing if she received an early acceptance,

but she has to take regular entrance exams.

Y-You're absolutely right.

Then file her resignation letter this instant!

But...

This year, the wind ensemble is working very hard.

The nationals are—

Regardless of your circumstances, I have no intention of accepting that resignation letter.

That resignation letter was written at your behest, was it not?

And what's wrong with that?

I raised her all by myself.

With no one else's help.

By myself!

So my daughter's future is my decision.

The club is doing nothing but dragging her down!

I understand where you're coming from, but—

I will support your daughter's wishes.

Unless it's what she wants, I will not accept the form.

Not under any other circumstances.

Tanaka-san is doing a great job of holding the club together as vice president.

And she will be fulfilling the club's dream of competing in nationals.

Couldn't you try to support her?

Asuka, tell him you're quitting the club.

Tell him. Now, You're quitting.

Mom, I don't want to quit—

Why?

Why can't you do as I say?!

Ma'am, please...

You're playing that instrument to get back at me, aren't you?

Do you want to see me suffer that much?!

A-Asuka...

Asuka, I'm sorry.

I lost my temper.

It's okay.

I'm sorry!

Excuse me, Sensei.

I'm going home with my mother today.

May I take the day off from practice?

Very well.

Mom, let's go.

Word of the incident spread like wildfire.

The band was immediately shaken up.

So, is Asuka-senpai really quitting?

I don't know.

I wonder why she's so insistent, though.

Asuka-senpai's mother?

Your parents shouldn't be choosing what club you join.

It's your career and your future.

You should be the one to decide.

I'm sure she's worried about her daughter, but...

Is something wrong?

Ah.

But I wonder why Asuka-senpai is staying in the club.

She's a third-year, she has entrance exams coming up,

and her mother's against it.

Maybe she just likes the band that much.

Really? It didn't come off like that to me.

She seemed more like the kind to be happy as long as she could play.

I don't get Asuka-senpai.

But the next day, as if to scoff at our concern, Asuka-senpai was back.

Hey, you're all at it!

As if nothing happened.

Asuka-senpai!

Senpai!

What's wrong, guys?

Haruka-senpai said you were taking the day off from school.

You aren't quitting, right? You're still coming, right?

Please, one at a time! I can't answer you all!

Senpai...

Why are you crying?

Because...

Damn it, Gotou, do something about your girlfriend!

Yeah?

So there's a rumor going around? Sorry to worry you.

I'm sorry, Oumae-chan. That must have been quite the scene.

It's fine! So are you...

Don't worry!

I won't do anything that would cause trouble.

Thank goodness!

I told you it would be all right.

Okay, everything's cleared up!

Enough of that. Let's practice!

Yes.

I was panicking, to be honest.

Natsuki!

I believe that.

Do you have a minute after rehearsal?

Sure.

I told you, it's okay!

You don't have to be so worried.

Are you sure?

I pr-o-mise!

Jeez, could you all just calm down? Quit blowing things out of proportion.

Liar.

The vice principal was talking to Taki-sensei

about getting a call from your mom this morning.

Is that so?

How are things, really?

If there's anything we can help with—

I'm fine.

I won't cause trouble for anyone.

Isn't that good enough?

All that matters is how the performance turns out. That's it.

That's it?

That's it.

It's just a club.

So stop making a mess of things.

Please be quiet.

Asuka...

From then on,

Asuka-senpai didn't show up to the club.

Asuka-senpai's absent again.

Yeah.

Have you heard from her?

No point in worrying about it now.

We have to focus on practice.

Has she called you?

No.

I've texted her every day, though.

How about you?

What's that?

Asuka's music.

I just found it.

She probably can't keep it at home.

Asuka...

Kaori-senpai!

Apparently, the vice principal accepted Asuka-senpai's resignation.

What's going on?

You all seem distracted.

Um...

Yes?

Is it true that the vice principal

accepted Asuka-senpai's resignation on your behalf?

No such thing has happened.

Do you all intend to let these rumors ruin your ability to play?

Let's just break and spend the rest of the day having sectionals.

Sensei!

Guys, can you hear me out?

Haruka...

I understand that everyone's nervous because Asuka's gone.

But I don't think we can keep relying on her.

We're anxious because she's gone, and it really has affected our playing.

Clubs aren't meant to be this way!

I know that.

But...

I think Asuka's more capable than I am.

So I've always thought Asuka should have been president.

I wasn't the only one.

We've been relying on her because we thought she could do anything.

We told ourselves that she was special, so we could.

But Asuka was never really special.

We created the idea that she's special.

She made being vice president, section leader, and drum major look easy.

It was normal for her to do it all so well.

She never showed weakness, and we got complacent and thought it was fine.

Now it's our turn to support her.

So we'll be ready when she returns.

Please.

Do you really think we'd be that lousy?

You don't have to talk to us like that. Of course we'll stand by you!

We're all serious.

And eventually the day of the station concert came around.

I'm getting nervous.

I don't know if I can do it.

It'll be fine, Hazuki-chan.

Ah.. But..

Seira Girls' High...

You can tell they're regulars at nationals. They look like they're in their element.

Yeah, but...

We made nationals, too.

You're right.

Exactly.

Asuka!

What's with that face? You look like you just saw a ghost.

Asuka-senpai...

You made it.

I told you I wouldn't cause any trouble.

Asuka-senpai! Senpai!

We were so worried!

Jeez, again with the crying.

Asuka...

I'm going to play a solo.

Will you carry me?

Of course!

It's way too broad.

I told you that I'm serious about it!

Even though you're graduating in a year?

That's too late! It has to be now.

But why a beautician, all of a sudden?

Until now, I've done everything you said.

I've put up with it all this time because I'm the older sister!

Mamiko...

Transferring schools, taking the exams...

I never really wanted to do any of it.

I wanted to keep up with band, like Kumiko.

I didn't want to quit the trombone!

If you felt so strongly,

you should have said so before you got into college.

Who's the one that made it so awkward that I couldn't?

True, Mom and I might have put a lot of pressure on you.

But you're still the one who decided to go to college and take the exams.

If you're really quitting, you'll leave this house.

Find a way to make a living and pay for tuition yourself.

Got it?

Wait, honey...

If you're serious, show it.

Onee-chan, you're dropping out?

After how much you nagged me to study, you're dropping out?

Why?!

Weren't you studying so you could attend a good college and land a good job?

That was all a waste of time if you quit!

It's none of your business.

Why are you quitting, Onee-chan?

No reason.

I want to play with you.

Shut up.

Come on, Onee-chan—

I told you to shut up.

Keep talking crap and I'll sew your mouth shut!

Is Mamiko-san quitting college?

How did you know?!

Mom said she heard.

After she told me not to tell people...

Did something happen at college?

I wouldn't know.

Ever since she started college, I hardly ever talk to her.

MUSIC ROOM

Okay, next, number 13.

Tanaka Asuka has returned!

What do you mean, "returned"?

Asuka-senpai, Ever since the concert at the station building,

even with the competition coming up, Asuka-senpai rarely came to practice.

We were all worried.

Please stop reading but ignoring my messages.

I keep telling you... I won't cause you trouble.

But...

Okay, guys! Everyone, take a seat!

Morning. How's it going?

Not bad.

You're still such an Oumae-chan, Oumae-chan...

What's that supposed to mean?

Technically, it's a compliment.

Asuka-senpai was her usual self.

But seeing her face next to me for the first time in a while,

I was overcome by an uncontrollable sense of dread.

Hey...

Asuka-senpai, you aren't quitting, are you?

You aren't quitting, are you?

You aren't—

Keep pestering me and I'll sew your mouth shut.

Oh, yeah. Oumae-chan, are you ready for your midterms?

Weren't you freaking out

that they've gotten really hard in high school?

Well, yeah. In math, I guess...

Want me to help you?

Let's see... Next week, practice ends early, right?

Come over!

Come over?

To your place?

Mamiko-san...

Shuichi?

Hello. Long time, no see.

You've grown so tall.

You're looking good. Bet you're popular.

Not really...

See you!

Umm.

Mamiko-san...

Have you ever come to hear us play?

Why?

I wish you'd come to hear us sometime.

We were really good at the Kansai Competition.

We could hardly believe it ourselves.

And we're going to the Nationals next.

You want me to go all the way to Nagoya?

Oh, yeah... That's true.

I think Kumiko would want you to hear her at least once, though.

I mean, she started concert band because she admired you.

Me?

Now?

Just a little.

No, it's too loud.

You're going to play for me?

Onee-chan...

I'd forgotten.

All right, that's it for today's practice.

But I need to talk to you about one thing.

If, by the end of the week,

we haven't gotten confirmation that Tanaka-san can continue with the club,

we'll have Nakagawa-san play at the Nationals.

Oumae-chan...

Natsuki-senpai?

Are you worried about me playing?

Oh, no...

Not at all.

Well, I am.

How long have you known about this?

Right after Asuka-senpai's mom came in, I think.

Asuka-senpai told me.

Conserve Electricity!

Natsuki-senpai's sheet music was covered with tips from Asuka-senpai.

It was almost like her will.

"Bring Back Asuka-senpai"?

Yeah. Next week, she's helping you study at your place, right?

I refuse.

I haven't even said anything yet.

You're going to ask me to convince her mom, aren't you?

W-Well, you know...

No way... That's crazy.

Don't worry.

Kaori-senpai has something that'll help.

"I recommend the steamed chestnut buns from Koufudou, near the station."

What in the world is this?

Asuka-senpai's mom's favorite snack.

Bring this, and everything will be okay.

Say that to my face.

Okay.

You've always done well, though.

Besides, if Asuka-senpai returns, you won't be able to play, Natsuki-senpai.

I don't mind. I have next year.

Right now, Asuka-senpai playing is the best thing for the club.

Do you really mean that?

That sounds like something you'd ask.

Yeah, I really mean it.

I see, that's what you were talking about.

Yeah. It's such a huge responsibility.

Why do you think Asuka-senpai called me, Reina?

I'm not in your section.

I don't even know Asuka-senpai that well.

Yeah, of course.

High School

Mathematics

There she is.

Oumae-chan!

Hey, what are you reading?

Are you curious?

If it's good, I'll lend it to you.

Let's go.

Okay.

This is my place.

No one's here, so make yourself at home.

Here you go.

Thank you.

Are you nervous?

No.

I see you brought your euphonium home.

She doesn't know that though.

O-Oh, really?

Now, can I take a look?

Your notes. -Ah!

Please and thank you.

Very well.

Young lady?

Yes?

This simply won't do...

Yes...

So then, you add these two.

Oh, I see.

You see? Right, Oumae-chan?

How about we take a little break?

Wanna eat those cream manjuu?

Uh... These are supposed to be for your mother...

I thought as much.

That's definitely something Kaori would come up with.

Oh, no, that's—

Sorry to disappoint you, but she's coming back late tonight.

I'll try to give them to her later though.

Here.

Please do so.

Thanks.

I'll make some more tea.

Oh, I'll help you—

M-My legs fell asleep.

There isn't really anything good here.

You okay with cookies?

Um, could I ask you something?

Why did you suddenly decide to tutor me?

I heard that your grades were slipping into dangerous levels because of your cold.

Wh-Who told you that?

Just kidding.

I just... wanted to talk to you a little.

Have you read this before?

Yes, I have a copy.

Most people start with this book, don't they?

The author,

Shindou Masakazu is a euphonium player himself.

He's pretty famous, isn't he? I have his CDs—

He's my former father.

Let's drink. The tea's getting cold.

Now's not the time for that!

Question time, then.

U-Uh, well, first...

What do you mean by former father?!

Hm, well...That's self explanatory, isn't it?

My parents divorced.

That's why I'm "Tanaka Asuka."

That makes sense.

I was only two when it happened.

I don't really have many memories of my father because of that.

You haven't seen him since then? Your father, that is.

My mom's, well, you know...

Apparently she absolutely didn't want me to have anything to do with him.

You saw how she is from that time in the staff room, didn't you?

She's a bit strange.

"Strange"...

She's very restrictive and gets hysteric at the drop of a hat.

Maybe that's why they got divorced?

But it's not like I hate her or anything.

She did raise me on her own this whole time.

I do feel like I need to repay her for that.

You say that you don't hate her.

but you actually do hate her, don't you?

This isn't an issue of love or hate.

After all, no matter what happens, she'll always be my mother.

No matter how much I try to deny it, the fact that she gave birth to me isn't going to change.

It's like a shackle. A shackle binding me for my whole life.

She has her own idea of happiness inside her head

and a wind ensemble isn't in there.

Never has been.

Then why did you start playing the euphonium?

I think it was back in first grade.

It just got delivered to me.

To Asuka

A worn-out notebook, a letter,

and a euphonium out of the blue.

To Asuka

To Asuka

To Asuka

To Asuka

And then I heard that

there was a store clerk who could play the euphonium at one of the local music shops.

My first try at it went a lot better than I expected.

And that made me incredibly happy.

That almost sounds like something out of a manga.

But of course, she didn't support me.

At first I tried to just bear with it—

but I couldn't, and we got into a big fight.

And then we finally agreed that if my grades slipped, I'd stop immediately.

So that's why...

I was desperate to continue doing the thing that I loved.

That's why I always had to be on top of everything.

"I'm not just doing this for fun."

"I'm happy just to be playing—even alone."

This must be punishment.

Huh?

Look at this.

This is the homepage for the National Competition.

Yeah, right here.

(Judges) Shindou Masakazu?

Suddenly I realized—

if we go to Nationals, he'll get to hear me play.

That's why...

Since we've come this far, I want to do whatever it takes

to let Kitauji ensemble sound throughout all of Japan.

Everything was for this,

but this is the result.

That just means that God is watching, doesn't it?

Oh, sorry!

That went on longer than I thought it would.

Let's get back to study—

I...!

I love hearing you play the euphonium, Asuka-senpai!

You were playing by yourself that morning at the practice camp, weren't you?

When I heard you play that piece...

I thought to myself that I really loved it.

That piece was composed by Shindou-san.

It was in the notebook that he sent along with the euphonium.

By your father?

Maybe what I really wanted was for you to reject that piece.

I might've wanted you to tear it to bits.

Why?

I really like it! That piece...

It's so warm and has a gentle feeling to it.

I want to keep hearing it!

I even want you play it for me right now!

Oumae-chan...

You're unusually aggressive today.

You're the one who's acting different from usual.

I see...

You're right.

Yes.

Hey, let's go to the river.

I feel like playing.

Okay.

You really want to hear it that badly?

I do!

You really are just like a euphonium, Oumae-chan.

I've always thought that I'm nothing like a euphonium.

That's why I was so surprised when I saw you, Oumae-chan.

It was so...

So surprising to find someone so much like a euphonium right next to me.

Is that a compliment?

It is.

Maybe that's why...

Maybe that's why I wanted you to hear me out.

The smile she bore was the likes of which she'd never shown me before.

How'd it go?!

How'd what go?

With Asuka-senpai!

Oh, right.

She seemed like she was doing fine.

But I'm still not sure about her coming back to the ensemble.

Oh... She has such good grades...

I don't know what her mother could be mad about.

That's right!

even though she's perfectly balancing school and ensemble.

I don't want her mom getting in her way.

Now, now.

But when you think about her future,

quitting the ensemble and focusing on her studies

does make sense.

That's true,

but. I get that, but...

Even still, I want to keep playing in the ensemble with Asuka-senpai!

Me too.

Something stinks...

Onee-chan... What are you doing?

I was trying to make miso soup...

What's all that?

Mom and Dad said they'd be home late, so that's for dinner.

Dinner?!

Dinner?! You're going to make it?

What's wrong with that?

Did you guys make up?

That's what I'm trying to do.

Didn't you have practice today?

Exams are coming up, so not today.

If I did have practice, I wouldn't be back so early.

Good point.

You really have horrible timing.

I...

I've always avoided doing what I wanted to do.

I always begrudgingly did what Mom and Dad told me to do.

I misunderstood that as me doing my best.

Just holding myself back and listening to my parents—

I thought I was being an adult.

And?

Where are you going with this?

Right.

That's why I was mad at you.

So carefree in your club. I kept thinking, "Why is it always her?"

You see, I was really jealous of you.

You did whatever you wanted.

Mom and Dad just listened to all of your selfish requests.

I'm pretty sure they pampered you way more.

They just treated me like that because I wasn't as good as you.

That's not true at all.

It is.

Mom could go on for hours just praising you.

I'm actually the one who was always mad at you.

Well, I'll admit that I was their prized daughter.

But I've decided to stop pretending.

In high school, I pretended I knew everything—

like I was an adult.

I'm supposed to keep my mouth shut and go along with how they think things should be?

Doing that doesn't get you anywhere.

All my regrets, all my failures...

I'll accept all of them.

I want to choose my own path!

I should've just told them that.

Even if they were against it, it would've been better that way.

I'm not going to make the same mistake again.

So are you gonna move out?

Yeah.

I see.

Gonna miss me?

Not really.

I see.

I might miss you a little. Just a little, though.

Oh, right. I'll be there at Nationals.

Good luck. -Huh?!

Wait, you're coming to watch?

Didn't I just say that?

Okay, call me when Mom gets home.

I'll be sleeping until she does.

Well, you know...

Just make sure you don't have any regrets either.

Hot...

Good morning. You don't have practice today either, right?

Yeah.

Where's Onee-chan?

She went back this morning.

I see.

One more time! Just one more time!

Oh, fine.

I told you to shut up, didn't I?

You see, I was really jealous of you.

You really want to?

Yeah! I do!

I want to play together with you!

I'm... going to miss you too.

Like I said...

Asuka-senpai?

Taki-sensei already said he'd go with Natsuki

and she said she's fine with that.

What good will come from bringing this up again?

Nakagawa-san said that she really wants you to play.

Well of course she would.

You really think she could just come out and say, "I want to play" in this situation?

But...

But...

I've already made my decision.

I decided I'd shift my focus to entrance exams.

Asuka...

You're okay with that?

You're really okay with that?

Isn't that what I've been saying?

Okay, I'll give you a moment to try and work this out.

Why did she lie like that?

It's obvious that she wants to go to Nationals.

It's obvious that she wants to play.

Okay, that's enough for today.

Good luck on the test.

Kumiko-chan? What about lunch?

Eat without me.

Okay...

And yeah... First-year?

Who are you?

Um, is Asuka-senpai... Tanaka Asuka-senpai here?

Oh, are you part of the wind ensemble?

Yes.

Asuka!

It must've been nerve-wracking coming all the way to my classroom.

Want some candy?

Thank you.

It's just something I got from someone.

I guess here should be good.

So? What is it?

There's something I have to talk to you about.

Wait, are you finally going to confess your love to me?!

During our time alone—

That's not it.

Of course not.

So, what's up?

Please join the competition group!

Is that all you wanted to say?

Yes.

Then my answer is "no."

The reason being it'd be better for the ensemble if I didn't perform.

That's not true at all.

Why not?

I don't show up to practice.

I don't even know if I'll be able to attend the show.

I'm nothing but an obstacle.

I wouldn't want me.

I know you have your reasons.

Plenty of people have their reasons.

But I'm not alone. Everyone's saying that they want you to play.

Everyone?

Who's everyone?

Well...

Can you prove that's what they're really thinking?

Prove?

Prove that they truly want me to play. Prove that they want to play alongside me.

I'm sure they all say they want those things.

As long as they say that, everyone's happy.

No one will get ridiculed.

But even so, that doesn't mean that everyone thinks that way!

At the very least,

everyone in the bass section keeps saying how they want you to play with us!

How can you be so sure?

Because I am.

I never thought I'd hear this kind of thing from you.

Did I go too far?

Not necessarily...

It just makes me wonder how you can know all these people's thoughts so intimately.

Even though you take interest and get closer to people

you're scared of hurting them and being hurt,

so you end up watching from a safe distance.

Do you really think anyone would show their true feelings to someone like that?

What?

I was thinking you were showing your aggressive side again, but are you out of gas already?

It'd be best if I just fade out like this.

Don't worry. Everyone will forget about me soon enough.

They'll all come together and welcome the Nationals.

In the end, it doesn't really matter since all the third-years will be leaving anyway.

She didn't seem like that type.

Right now, Asuka-senpai playing is the best thing for the club.

Even still, I want to keep playing in the ensemble with Asuka-senpai!

What is it you're trying to say?!

You're right!

You're right about the band, the competition... Everything!

But that doesn't matter at all!

I truly want to perform with you.

I want to perform with you!

You're acting like a child—

What's wrong with that?!

Why are you trying so hard to be an adult?

You think you're so special—

think you can see through everything!

You're just a regular high school student!

What about any of this is "for the best"?!

You want your father to hear your performance, don't you?

You want to go to Nationals more than anyone else, don't you?

So why are you throwing all that away?

Pretending that you're dealing with it and giving up

after all that is just plain selfish!

It's not right.

You told me to wait,

so please don't just give up.

Don't make choices that you know you're going to regret.

Give up after you've given it everything you've got!

I want to stand on that stage with you!

I want to play in that hall with you!

I want to hear you play your euphonium!

Look at you. Your face is a mess.

But... But...

You didn't have to go that far if you were just gonna end up like this.

But!

But I'm happy.

I'm so happy.

Senpai?

Yes?

Could I look at your face?

No.

You'll be cursed forever if you do.

Asuka?

Asuka, Ikeda-sensei's looking for you.

He wants to talk to you about that mock exam.

Mock exam?

Sorry, I've got to go.

Haruka!

I heard about the mock exam.

Eh?

Excuse me.

Amazing! Natsuki.

What? What's up?

Asuka-senpai!

All right, we're going to start in five minutes!

Seriously?

Alright, do your best.

We're starting soon.

Huh, didn't you hear?

Asuka-senpai really likes to tease you, doesn't she?

Asuka-senpai?

Sorry I'm late.

What's going on?

Apparently, if Asuka ranked in the top 30 nationally on her tests,

she would use that to convince her mom to let her come back.

She said she'd perform no matter what.

Sorry, Natsuki.

Don't apologize.

I've been waiting for you after all.

Welcome back.

I'm back.

So this is our final practice, huh?

So, did you get in touch with your dad?

Of course not.

Oh, I see.

Well then, shall we begin?

Thank you for your help.

We arrived at the nationals.

I'm sure there's a lot of emotions all around.

This is the first time I've felt this way.

I want everyone to listen.

I want our sound to resonate within this hall.

I want deliver the sound of Kitauji.

Okay everyone!.

Do you all have your ribbons on?

Huh, where'd I put it?

You already have it on.

Percussion's going in separately, so be careful, okay?

Will do!

All right.

It's time for the real thing.

In Spring, we set a goal to make an appearance at Nationals,

and now here we are.

I won't tell you the outcome doesn't matter.

However, now that we've gotten this far,

what's important is that you give a performance you won't regret.

Especially you, third-years.

Yes, sir.

This is your final performance.

Make your performance on this huge stage one you'll never forget.

Yes, sir!

Sensei? May I say something?

Of course. Go ahead.

Today's the day.

I won't say anything negative today.

I'm excited from the bottom of my heart.

Let's put on a great performance, get gold, and go home!

Yes, ma'am!

Now for the vice president, Asuka.

Let's see...

I've caused quite a bit of trouble for all of you over the past few weeks.

But it's thanks to all of you that I can stand here today.

Thank you.

Let's make the best music ever with everyone here from Kitauji High!

Let's do it so that we can end it all with a smile!

Yes, ma'am!

Thank you for listening!

Haruka?

All right!

Then I'd like everyone to cheer together.

Kitauji fight...

On!

Asuka-senpai?

Actually, my sister's here too.

Really?

Then I guess I'll have to give it my all.

You'd better, too.

Yeah.

Kitauji!

We're up.

Let's go.

Third on the program, representing Kansai Kitauji High School.

Right!

Their conductor...

So what do we do now?

There's still ages before they announce the results.

I saw a café, so I'm gonna head over there.

Oh, that sounds good. I'll come too.

You're not going to see the other performances?

Even though you're our presidents.

It's fine.

We're not your presidents anymore, after all.

Oh, right.

Then I guess I'll tag along too.

Let's go to the café.

Okay, let's go.

Great! Now that that's decided, let's split a banana parfait between the three of us!

A special jumbo banana parfait!

They really have that?

They'll be making it even if they don't!

Thank you for your patience.

We will now announce the awards for the second half of the high school division.

This is it.

First, Gigan Trade High School, silver medal.

High school division. Gigan Trade High School.

Second, Katashiki High School,

gold medal.

Third, Kitauji High School...

Why do you all look so miserable?

Smile properly!

Easy for you to say...

Award Certificate Bronze Medal High School Division Kitauji High School Wind Ensemble You have all demonstrated excellence in the Japan National Wind Ensemble Competition

Bronze Medal

I'm sorry, Senpai.

This isn't something you need to apologize for, Kousaka-san.

We played our best and that was the result.

Kousaka, next year we're gonna get gold.

Yes!

Man, that was a great performance! I was in tears!

It was very impressive.

Ogasawara! You did so well!

Sensei, I can't breathe.

I'm counting on you for next year.

Yes.

What's wrong?

Oh, nothing.

Tanaka-san, Oumae-san. Perfect timing.

There's something that I need to tell the both of you.

Do you two know Shindou Masakazu-san?

He was one of the judges today.

Yes. He's a euphonium player, right?

I just met him in the hall,

and he asked me to pass on a message to the girl playing the euphonium.

A message?

Yes.

"Good job getting this far."

"Your playing was very beautiful."

Do either of you know him?

Yes, a little.

I did it! He complimented my playing!

That's great, Senpai.

Father.

To Asuka

To Asuka

To Asuka

To Asuka

To Asuka

We third-years are now retiring from the ensemble.

Here, at the end,

I want to thank all of you for following a timid person like me.

A lot of bad things may have happened in this past year, but...

There might have been a lot of hardships, but...

But you all gave a truly amazing performance!

Well then, I'll take over from our crybaby president.

To be honest, I have nothing to say about today's performance.

Kitauji's music was heard at the Nationals.

We gave it our all.

Seriously everyone, good work.

This also marks the end for the third-years.

And now the second-years are going to take our place.

That sure has me worried.

Well, as you all know,

I've never been one to beat around the bush, so I'll be blunt.

I'm very frustrated with today's result.

But as third-years, we don't have any more chances.

That sad reality weighs on all of us.

That's why next year, you'll get the gold medal.

This is my last order as the vice president.

Am I clear?

Yes, ma'am!

Very good. I won't forget that response.

I'll be coming every day even after I graduate.

Senpai, please don't.

Huh? Why?!

Onee-chan!

Kumiko!

Oumae-san.

Asuka?

I'll give her a proper scolding later.

Welcome back.

Asuka-senpai.

How did it go? Did you find her?

Yeah, I did.

I managed to tell her my thoughts.

I see.

Let's go then. Everyone's waiting!

Ah! I'm so sorry!

I'll call you out later.

Oh, by the way, Oumae-chan. -Yes?

Do you like the euphonium?

Yes! I like it!

Me too!

Dear Onee-chan,

It's kind of embarrassing to be exchanging letters with you like this.

Even as it continues to become colder during this month of February,

I remain the same.

Studies are going okay, and I'm still practicing every day.

I think Mom is starting to worry about my future, but...

Sign: Congratulations!

I still want to go back to the Nationals.

I want to get gold.

I don't want to have any regrets.

Just like you told me.

Now, representing the graduating class, Tanaka Asuka.

Yes.

The warmth of spring can once again be felt in the sunlight.

Sensei, thank you very much.

Senpai, take care!

You too, guys.

Act more like a college student, okay? -Yes!

Here.

What am I supposed to do after you're gone, Senpai?

You'll be fine.

I'll come check on the garden every now and then.

You're the president now, aren't you? Pull yourself together.

Attention, new students! Welcome to Kitauji High!

To congratulate everyone on their admission...

Oh? Oumae-chan!

What are you doing all the way out here?

What about you? What are you doing here?

Well, I'm just no good with these kinds of situations.

Oh, congratulations on your graduation.

Like I said, I'm not good with that kind of stuff.

More importantly, did something happen?

I just wanted to say something to you.

To me? You were looking for me?

Yes.

Wait, what? Did you need romantic advice?

That's right.

Seriously?

I used to be unable to stand you.

I always thought you were tough to deal with, but I had to bear with it

because you were older than me and played in the same section.

I might've actually hated you.

That's what you wanted to tell me?

Do you find that funny?

Of course.

I mean, I already knew that.

You don't know anything!

Because I've grown to love you!

You never let your true emotions show, Asuka-senpai.

It always feels like you're looking down on people.

You even say that you don't care about results.

But... But now I feel so lonely.

I really want to hear your playing again.

I want to play the euphonium like you!

So that's what you wanted to tell me?

I'll give this to you.

This is your father's...

I don't really need it anymore.

It's your turn to let the younger generations hear it.

I don't want to say goodbye!

Then don't.

See you later.

Yeah!

I wonder how long ago it was that Asuka-senpai first let me hear this piece.

Right then was when I learned the actual name of the piece.

Sound!

Euphonium