Mayu Kuroe is a key supporting character in the anime series Sound! Euphonium, also known as Hibike! Euphonium. As a third-year student at Kitauji High School, Mayu plays an important role in the school’s concert band. She’s not just any member—she’s the trumpet section leader, which says a lot about her level of responsibility and leadership. Playing the trumpet comes naturally to her, but what really defines Mayu Kuroe is her unwavering dedication and strict attitude toward musical excellence.

At first glance, Mayu might come across as serious or even a bit intimidating. And honestly, that’s not far from the truth—she takes her role very seriously. But beneath that disciplined exterior is someone who deeply cares about the band and its members. Early on in the series, Mayu Kuroe expresses doubts about competing in the National Band Competition. She worries that the pressure might break the team’s spirit or ruin the friendships within the group. It’s not that she lacks confidence in their skills—it’s more that she values harmony and unity so much that she fears competition could disrupt it.

But here’s the thing: Mayu Kuroe grows throughout the story. As time goes on, she begins to embrace the idea of striving for greatness. Her commitment deepens, and she starts pushing herself—and others—to reach new heights. This shift doesn’t mean she softens her standards; rather, she learns how to balance high expectations with empathy. That evolution is one of the most compelling parts of her journey.

One of the most meaningful relationships in the series is between Mayu Kuroe and Kumiko Oumae, the main protagonist. They’ve been close friends since middle school, and their bond is built on mutual respect and a shared passion for music. Mayu often acts as a grounding force for Kumiko, offering thoughtful advice when things get tough. Their friendship adds emotional depth to the narrative and shows how personal connections can fuel artistic growth.

What makes Mayu Kuroe such a memorable character isn’t just her talent or position—it’s her integrity. She leads by example, showing up on time, staying focused during practice, and holding everyone accountable. Her attention to detail is impressive; you’ll often see her checking instruments or making sure procedures are followed exactly. These habits aren’t just about control—they reflect her belief that small efforts lead to big results.

In terms of personality, Mayu Kuroe fits well within the ISTJ type—Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging. She’s quiet and reserved, preferring action over words. While she may not be the most outgoing person in the band, her loyalty runs deep. When her friends need help, Mayu Kuroe is there—even if she doesn’t say much. She approaches problems logically, relying on facts and experience rather than emotions. Planning and organization matter a lot to her, and she expects others to take their responsibilities seriously too.

Looking at the Enneagram, Mayu Kuroe seems to align closely with Type 1: “The Reformer.” This type thrives on principles, improvement, and doing things the “right” way. Mayu holds herself—and those around her—to incredibly high standards. She wants everything to be done properly, whether it’s tuning an instrument or preparing for a performance. When things fall short, she can become critical, not out of malice, but because she genuinely believes people should strive to be better.

Of course, this drive for perfection sometimes makes her seem rigid or overly strict. There are moments when her sense of right and wrong feels inflexible. But again, this comes from a place of care. Mayu Kuroe isn’t trying to control others—she’s trying to uphold values she believes in. And while she may struggle with expressing vulnerability, her actions consistently show her devotion to the band and her friends.

All in all, Mayu Kuroe plays a vital role in Sound! Euphonium. Her journey reflects broader themes like perseverance, personal growth, and the power of music to bring people together. Through her discipline, loyalty, and quiet strength, Mayu Kuroe becomes more than just a section leader—she becomes a pillar of the ensemble. Whether she’s leading rehearsals, supporting Kumiko, or quietly polishing a trumpet valve, Mayu Kuroe leaves a lasting impression.