Commissioned by Japan's Central Air Self Defense Force Band

When I received this commission, I thought of a regular piece for wind band, but as my preparations continued I heard so much about the band's outstanding trumpeter Kenichi Kurisu that I ended up writing a concerto for him. The Self Defense Force audience includes those without much chance to otherwise hear live music. With that in mind I realized I also had the challenge of creating a melody that was compelling.

Using the classical sonata as a model I made this song with simple movements and included a signature chorus in the middle section. Although this piece is performed with band, a version for piano accompaniment was created by pianist Orimo Manabu for the 20th Anniversary of "The Trumpet Concert."

This edition of Trumpet Concerto was offered for an American Premier at the 2013 Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic, Robert Sullivan soloist with the Kagoshima Joho High School Wind Orchestra.

(Satoshi Yagisawa)