Three-movement flexible ensemble piece exploring the beauty of Ryukyu folk songs.
I. Asadoya Yunta (1:38)
II. Tinsagu-nu-Hana (1:50)
III. Tanchame (1:17)
[Part 1A] Flute, Violn, Eb Clarinet
[Part 1B] Bb Clarinet, Bb Trumpet, Eb Alto Saxophone
[Part 2A] Flute, Oboe, Violin, Bb Clarinet, Bb Soprano Saxophone
[Part 2B] Bb Clarinet, Bb Tenor Saxophone, F Horn
[Part 3A] Bb Clarinet, Eb Alto Clarinet, Eb Alto Saxophone, Viola
[Part 3B] Bassoon, Trombone, Euphonium, Cello, Bb Bass Clarint, Eb Baritone Saxophone
[Part 4A(Optional)] Bassoon, Trombone, Euphonium, Cello, Bb Bass Clarint, Eb Baritone Saxophone
[Part 4B(Optional)] Tuba, String Bass
(Optional)
Timpani
Triangle, Glockenspiel, Tambourine, Tom
This is an ensemble piece that can be performed by a variety of players, from only three up to a chamber wind orchestra, similar to what we composed in 2013, "Three Folk Songs". This time, the theme is "Ryukyu Folk Songs" in three movements.
The first movement is "Asadoya Yunta".
Yunta is a kind of work song used during rice planting. It is an old song from Taketomi Island in Yaeyama Islands.
The second movement is "Tinsagu-nu-Hana".
Tinsagu means a garden balsam, and in Okinawa Prefecture, it has long been believed that painting and dyeing fingernails with balsam flower juice is effective in warding off evil spirits. The song has up to 10 verses, showing the importance of following the teachings of parents and elders.
And finally, "Tanchame".
Tanchame is the name of a place in Onnason Village on the main island of Okinawa Prefecture, and this folk song is set on the shores of Tancha. It is a typical folk song and dance of the main island of Okinawa, performed by men and women in pairs.
It is characterized by Uchigumi Odori (a dance based on the theme of the hearts of those who are in a contrasting relationship).
The third movement should be rhythmical and joyful, the second movement should be harmonically beautiful, and the first movement should be carefully balanced.
(Hiroki Takahashi)
