Taira

Taira is known for being strict and serious when it comes to music and behavior.

He values respect and proper attitude from young musicians.

He can seem tough or harsh at first, but he cares deeply about finding real talent and giving young people a fair chance.

If he thinks he made a mistake or was too hard, he reflects and tries to do better.

Manager of "SO BLUE"

Taira is the manager of "SO BLUE," considered the best live jazz venue in Japan.

Yukinori Sawabe really admires "SO BLUE" and wants more than anything to play there.

First Meeting with Yukinori Sawabe

Yukinori visits Taira and boldly asks him to listen to his band’s performance.

However, Yukinori’s rude attitude during their first meeting makes Taira scold him for his personality.

Taira feels that Yukinori’s musical skills are still not good enough yet.

Regret and Self-Reflection

Despite being unimpressed at first, Taira can’t stop thinking about Yukinori’s band, "Jass".

He worries that being too strict might have discouraged Yukinori and hurt his motivation.

Taira later meets Dai Miyamoto by chance at the live house and talks with him.

After hearing about Yukinori’s recent activities, Taira feels relieved that Yukinori is still working hard.

Giving Yukinori a Big Chance

An overseas jazz band that was set to perform at "SO BLUE" loses a member last minute.

Taira quickly chooses Yukinori as a replacement, and Yukinori happily says yes.

Yukinori’s performance on stage amazes Taira.

Impressed, Taira finally decides to invite "Jass" to perform at "SO BLUE".

Controversial Decision for "Jass"

Having an unknown teenage band like "Jass" perform at such a high-level place was debated among the staff.

Some people didn’t agree, but Taira stood his ground all the way to the end.

Because of Taira’s belief, "Jass" gets their big break and is allowed to perform at "SO BLUE".