Six-movement adaptable suite depicting a legendary tale from Japan's oldest history.
[Part 1] Flute, Eb Clarinet
[Part 2] Bb Clarinet, Eb Alto Saxophone
[Part 3] Oboe, Bb Clarinet, Bb Soprano Saxophone, Bb Trumpet, Eb Alto Saxophone
[Part 4] Bb Clarinet, Bb Trumpet, Eb Alto Saxophone, F Horn
[Part 5] Bassoon, Trombone, Euphonium (optional), Bb Clarinet, Bb Tenor Saxophone, F Horn
[Part 6] Bassoon, Euphonium, Trombone (optional), Bb Tenor Saxophone, Eb Alto Clarinet, F Horn
[Part 7] Bassoon, Tuba, String Bass, Bb Bass Clarinet, Eb Baritone Saxophone
[Percussion 1] Wind Chime, Shime-daiko, Glockenspiel, Nagado-daiko, Snare Drum, Triangle, Anvil
[Percussion 2 (optional)] Suspended Cymbal, Bass Drum, Finger Cymbals, Tam-tam, Kagura-suzu
[Percussion 3 (optional)] Bass Drum, Timpani, Suspended Cymbal
The original version of this work was commissioned by the Lamer (Kamo Culture Hall in Unnan City, Shimane Prefecture) Art Festival 2017 Executive Committee, and premiered at the festival of the same name on November 5, 2017. Originally written for wind band, the piece is approximately 9 minutes and 30 seconds in length and was conceived as a Suisoshi, "symphonic poem for wind band."
For this new flexible ensemble version, the work has been restructured into a suite consisting of six movements, each with its own subtitle:
1. Introduction
2. Susanoo no Mikoto
3. Kushinada-hime
4. Yamata no Orochi
5. The Battle
6. Finale
The arrangement is designed to be highly adaptable, suitable for a minimum of 8 performers (7 parts plus percussion) as well as larger ensembles.
The work depicts the legendary tale of Susanoo-no-Mikoto slaying the fearsome Yamata-no-Orochi, as recounted in Kojiki, Japan's oldest historical chronicle. The music follows the storyline closely, incorporating phrases from the Izumo Kagura performance Yamata-no-Orochi, and features memorable themes for each character, including the "Theme of Susanoo" and the "Theme of Kushinada."
(Hiroki Takahashi)
