About the Commissioning Organization

This piece was composed in August 2023 at the request of Mr. Manabu Sato, the advisor of the Sendai Jonan High School Wind Orchestra. In the same year, it won a Gold Award and the Fukushima Prefectural Education Director's Award in the Ensemble Division of the Japan School Band Competition 2023 ~ Solo & Ensemble Contest ~ National Competition. Subsequently, it also received the Sendai City Cultural and Arts Award in recognition of these achievements. As the composer, I am very pleased that the organization involved with this piece received such prestigious awards. Congratulations indeed.

About the Piece

Unlike my previous shadow series for woodwinds, this piece embodies one form of light, or brightness, in sound, making it a Knot of Light. The best way to describe the style of this piece might be a new fusion of Eastern and French music. It consists of three main sections and progresses in a fast-slow-fast structure.

As a three-part composition, the music is woven together in a very simple style with tutti, unison, harmony, and solo. By understanding each part and creating music together, performers can achieve a higher level of performance. Precision is required for the sixteenth notes, trills, and rhythmic accents, but if these notes are interpreted flexibly and performed in a manner true to the piece, it will highlight the interesting aspects of the composition.

If the performance by the three musicians resonates as one entity and touches the hearts of the listeners, there is no greater joy for me as a composer.

Performance Points

In fast tempos, precise expressions that emphasize the rhythm are required. Pay attention to breath speed and aim for breath control suitable for the piece.
During sixteenth-note crescendos, an expansive sound is needed. Sound expands because of the cohesive tone, so control your breath carefully. In some cases, using an undulating breath for the crescendo can be effective. Aim for a varied and interesting performance.
There are sections with accents written in the middle of slurs. By focusing on the flow of breath and injecting these notes momentarily, the phrase will emerge three-dimensionally. Express this clearly.
At rehearsal letter D, ideally, each player should express the most beautiful sound possible. Additionally, a simple, warm, and flavorful tone is desired to weave the melody.
At rehearsal letter M, make the most of the rhythm of the third part, aiming for an earthy yet stylish performance.
Wishing you a wonderful performance!

(Hiroaki Kataoka)