Nodo-Jiman Singing Contest

Based off the hit NHK TV Show NHKのど自慢 (NHK Amateur Singing Contest), this year Japan Festival Boston is introducing the Japan Festival Boston Nodo-Jiman! Whether you're an incredible singer or just love putting on a show, this is your chance to shine.

How does it work? You or a group of up to 4 people will sing your heart out for 1 minute, karaoke style, and the judges will evaluate your performance!

Nodo-Jiman Stage Process

Nodo-Jiman is a fun event meant for amateur singers to show off their skills on stage. Here’s a rundown of how the contest will proceed.

1. Going on Stage

When your name is called, step onto the stage and stand in front of the microphone. Briefly introduce yourself (your name and a short message).

2. Start Singing

The music will start playing, and you begin singing.

3. Bell Judging (Judges will ring the bell)

If a bell rings while you are singing, you must stop immediately (*Bell system details below). If no bell rings during your performance, it means the judges were highly impressed with your singing.

4. Results & Comments

The judges or MC may give a short comment.

5. Leaving the Stage

Exit the stage to make way for the next performe.


Bell System:

  • 🔔 1 bell = Eliminated (Needs Some Work)

  • 🔔🔔 2 bells = Eliminated (Very Close)

  • 🔔🔔🔔 3 bells = Success! 

*If you hear the bell while you're singing, it means you are eliminated and you need to stop singing. Keep pushing yourself to improve!
*If you don’t hear the bell and get to sing the full song, it means your singing was amazing. Congratulations!

And if you do hear the bell during your performance, don’t worry! After all, sometimes an "epic fail" can be just as memorable as a great performance! Bring your best energy, creativity, and passion for entertaining—because it's not just about singing perfectly, but about having fun and creating a great experience for everyone watching!

Details

Location: Japan Festival Boston – Main Stage Area
Date: Saturday, April 26
Time: 11:30AM - 12:00PM
Performance Time: Approximately 1 minute per person (group)

Participation Requirements

  • Ages 13 and up (Middle school students must be accompanied by a guardian)

  • Amateur singers only (Professional singers are not eligible)

  • One entry per person (group)

  • Group participation is allowed (up to 4 people per group)

  • Japanese song is preferred but not required (Even if you’re not fluent in Japanese, we’d love to see you give a Japanese song a try!)

  • Karaoke performance only (No live instrumentals)

Application

  • Application Deadline: Sunday, April 20th at 11:59 PM

  • Number of groups: Up to 10 groups (If applications exceed capacity, participants will be chosen by lottery)

  • Announcement of Selected Participants: Tuesday April 22nd

  • Selected participants will receive details and event information via email (Karaoke audio will be provided in advance)

  • Unselected applicants will receive a notification email on Tuesday, April 22nd.

Please apply through the application form here.

Application Form Requirements:

1. Name (If applying as a group, include the representative's name)

2. Age, gender, and occupation

3. Contact information (Email and phone number)

4. Number of participants

5. Song title & artist name

6. Singing video (or audio only is acceptable)

7. Middle school students must provide a guardian's name and contact information

Important Notes

  • No changes allowed after submission (Song choices and participants cannot be changed after applying)

  • Karaoke machine performance only (No live instrumental performances)

  • No key changes allowed during the qualifying round (Original key must be used)

  • To maximize performance time, song intros and interludes may be shortened