K-On! follows four (later five) high school girls who join the Light Music Club to save it from disbanding. Despite their intention to practice, they spend most of their time drinking tea, eating cake, and hanging out, though they do eventually become a competent band.

The band 'Ho-kago Tea Time' (HTT) consists of Yui Hirasawa (Guitar/Vocals), Mio Akiyama (Bass/Vocals), Ritsu Tainaka (Drums), Tsumugi Kotobuki (Keyboard), and Azusa Nakano (Rhythm Guitar).

It is the quintessential 'Moe' Slice-of-Life anime. It focuses on cute girls doing cute things (CGDCT), comedy, and school life, with music as a central but sometimes secondary theme.

Yes, the 'K-On! Effect' reportedly caused a massive spike in instrument sales in Japan, particularly for the specific models played by the characters (Gibson Les Paul, Fender Jazz Bass, etc.).

There are two TV seasons: Season 1 (13 eps + OVA) and Season 2 (26 eps + OVA), plus a feature-length Movie. The second season is often praised for its emotional depth.

It was produced by Kyoto Animation (KyoAni). The series is famous for its incredible attention to detail in character acting, instrument animation, and background art, directed by Naoko Yamada.

While the voice actresses performed the songs vocally and held live concerts where they played instruments to varying degrees, the intricate instrumental tracks in the anime were recorded by professional studio musicians.

Yes, 'K-On! The Movie' (2011) depicts the band's graduation trip to London. It is a canonical conclusion to their high school storyline.

Streaming availability varies, but it is often found on platforms like HIDIVE or Hulu. Physical releases are available from Sentai Filmworks.

It perfected the 'healing anime' (iyashikei) formula. It offers a low-stress, heartwarming, and often funny look at friendship and youth, culminating in a genuinely touching graduation arc that resonates with anyone who has had to say goodbye to school friends.