From commissions by the Yamaha Wind Orchestra over a period of four years, "Fluttering Maple Leaves" is the fourth composition following "Nami no Ho - Wave Crests," "Souten no Shizuku - Azure Droplets," and "La saison lumineuse du vent vert." The piece was named through a public call for titles during its premiere. The series embodies the essence of the seasons, starting from winter, with this piece representing autumn. However, it's not entirely a depiction of autumn, as there are unconventional elements present as well.

Before starting this composition, I was moved by the story of a band member who reluctantly had to leave the group. The expression on their face at that moment and my own departure after four years, marking what could be called my graduation, along with the farewells to the people I had formed meaningful relationships with all contributed to a sense of melancholy. This sentiment casted a shadow over the piece, perhaps embodying the autumnal feel in an unexpected way.

(Jun Nagao)