The Federation of Japan Amateur Orchestras, Corp. (JAO) was established in 1972 with 23 amateur orchestras initiated by Toyohashi Symphony Orchestra. In 1973 the first National Festival of Amateur Orchestras was held in Toyohashi, then it has been continued up to now while each local amateur orchestra has played a role as host orchestra. The latest National Festival was held in Fukuoka in August 1995.
Now JAO having 150 member orchestras is deploying nationwide activities besides National Festival. In July 1995. JAO was formally incorporated under the approval of Munister of Education.
