Original Work: Kids on the Slope (Sakamichi No Apollon), by Yuki Kodama (Shogakukan, serialized in Monthly Flowers) Winner of the 57th Shogakukan Manga Award (general audience division)

Introduction

A new standard in coming-of-age anime performed by noitaminA!





Creator Comments

"When it comes to adapting this manga to anime, I can say with no reservations that the series has been blessed with a brilliant combination of staff members that couldn't be any better. I'm so thrilled about this that I feel a tightening in my chest. I can't wait to see the collaboration of imagery and music that's in store for us."

—Original Work: Yuki Kodama

"Actually, this is my first time directing a series based on an original work. After reading the manga, I thought it was a series that I should do. I like to think that I'm bringing out the delicious flavor of the original work while doing a “session” with Ms. Kodama."

—Director: Shinichiro Watanabe

"I originally read Ms. Kodama's series out of pleasure, getting to be a part of the anime version was a surprise. I'm worried about destroying the image fans have of the characters, but I'll do my best!"

—Character Designer: Nobuteru Yuki

"Coming of age and jazz. This is exactly the kind of series I've been waiting for. I entreat everyone to listen to the heartbeat of life of the brilliant young jazz musicians who performed the sounds that could be heard from the original work."

—Music: Yoko Kanno