Light of the Orient

Commissioned by Iizuka Wind Orchestra in Fukuoka Prefecture, premiered in June 2012 at the 54th Chikuho Wind Band Festival in Iizuka Cosmos Commons, and performed in the All Japan Band Competition that same year.
Using pentatonic scales and fourth and fifth intervals to express Oriental sounds, the piece is divided into four sections (Opening to D, D to L, L to Q, Q to End). The saxophone solo at the beginning, the lyrical sections at a soft dynamic, and the dynamic rhythms evoke a dramatic world reminiscent of the Orient.
At the beginning, the bass drum and saxophone solo should be played freely, without precise rhythm. In the introduction, focus on ensemble playing so the music can flow even without conductor. Following this, Piu mosso and Pesante appear alternately. The piece's appeal doubles with quick scene changes within short phrases, so please be creative. In the percussion ensemble sections, listen to the volume balance to enhance the dynamic range from delicate pianissimos to powerful fortes.
In the rhythmic sections of the middle, keep vertical lines in mind and ensure the notes are neatly articulated. The quiet parts with percussion and double bass should be played freely, without focusing too much on the beat, similar to the beginning. The subsequent saxophone solo should have dynamic contrasts, and creating a good ebb and flow would be ideal.
In the final section, be flamboyant! Emphasize the last Bb powerfully. If you favor the thematic notes (F, Ab, Bb, C, Eb), you will notice the piece's intricacies.
*If there is enough room in the percussion section, you may adapt the score to use of fixed instruments.

(Hiroaki Kataoka)