Commissioned by Gifu Prefectural Hashima Kita High School (led by Ms. Sayuri Torii) in 2024. The premier instrumentation was an octet of Flute (with Piccolo), Clarinets 1-3, Alto Saxophones 1-2, Tenor Saxophone, and Baritone Saxophone. For publication, the piece has been revised for flexible instrumentation.
Away from Darkness is intended to convey the idea of "emerging from darkness." The "darkness" in this context symbolizes emotions such as anxiety and restlessness. These feelings are expressed through a motif built on chromatic bell tone intervals, creating a tense and emotionally charged theme that unfolds to depict an inner landscape.
In today's society, where uncertainty is a constant presence, I hope this piece serves as a musical expression of the courage and strength to break free from the darkness.

(Shuhei Tamura)