A deeply personal symphony blending classical, jazz, and popular elements.
1st Movement: Introduction and Theme
2nd Movement: Scherzo
3rd Movement: Adagio
4th Movement: Finale
Piccolo
Flute 1 (div.)
Flute 2 (div.)
Oboe 1/2
Bassoon 1/2
Eb Clarinet
Bb Clarinet 1 (div.)
Bb Clarinet 2 (div.)
Bb Clarinet 3 (div.)
Bb Bass Clarinet
Bb Contrabass Clarinet
Bb Soprano Saxophone
Eb Alto Saxophone 1
Eb Alto Saxophone 2
Bb Tenor Saxophone
Eb Baritone Saxophone
Bb Trumpet 1 (div.)
Bb Trumpet 2 (div.)
Bb Trumpet 3 (div.)
F Horn 1/2
F Horn 3/4
Trombone 1
Trombone 2
Trombone 3
Bass Trombone
Euphonium (div.)
Tuba (div.)
String Bass (div.)
Piano
Harp
Timpani (doubling Maracas, R.H. Maracas)
[Percussion 1] Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Crash Cymbals, Suspended Cymbal, Hi-hat Cymbal, Finger Cymbal, Wind Chime, Break Drum, Cabasa, Bongo & Conga
[Percussion 2] Bass Drum, Large Crash Cymbals, Suspended Cymbal
[Percussion 3] Suspended Cymbal, Finger Cymbal, Sizzle Cymbal, Tam-tam, 4 Tom-toms, Wind Chime, Bell Tree, 2 Temple Blocks
[Percussion 4] Suspended Cymbal, 4 Tom-toms, Wind Chime, Whip, Crotales, Glockenspiel, Xylophone, Vibraphone, Marimba, Tubular Bells
[Percussion 5] Crash Cymbals, Break Drum, Whip, Glockenspiel, Vibraphone, Marimba, Tubular Bells
This piece was commissioned by the Yokohama Sakae Public Wind Ensemble, an ensemble based primarily in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. Composition began in 2011, and the complete four-movement work was finished in October 2014. Lasting approximately 40 minutes, it received its premiere in January 2015 at the ensemble's annual concert.
As my first symphony, this work represents a personal expression of my own thoughts and beliefs. Written over the course of four years, it follows a four-movement structure. Most of my previous compositions were inspired by specific subjects such as landscapes, historical events, or people. In contrast, I expressed my emotions through music in this work.
I. Introduction and Theme
Following a dramatic opening, several important motifs are introduced. These motifs serve as the origins from which the music develops and expands. In the latter half of the movement, the principal theme of the symphony is presented quietly, after which the opening melody returns. The movement concludes powerfully.
II. Scherzo
This movement incorporates elements of jazz, rock, and popular music. A motif introduced at the beginning dominates the entire movement.
As the title of the movement suggests, it is primarily written in triple meter and follows a ternary (ABA) form. A calmer and more relaxed middle section appears before the opening melody returns.
This movement incorporates many musical elements from genres outside classical music that I have listened to throughout my life.
III. Adagio
This movement is dedicated to a friend who supported me and passed away in 2008. A recurring motif appears throughout the movement. For the first ninety percent of the movement, the music remains in D minor. Gradually, it is led toward a quiet chorale based on ""Future of Gemstone"" and ultimately comes to a close in F major.
IV. Finale
It begins with a triumphant restatement of the first movement's theme in a major key. The movement is filled with joy and vitality. Various musical elements and melodies from across Asia are incorporated, reflecting my own vision of what music can be. Motifs from all three previous movements reappear, and in the latter part of the movement, the symphony's principal theme returns. The music builds to its highest climax and brings the symphony to a close. It is my sincere hope that every listener may discover and feel something meaningful within this music.
(Daisuke Shimizu)
