Fanfare No. 1 (1995) In the summer of 1995 before his departure to the United States, a request from his high school band friends for a good concert opener sparked 19 year old Hokoyama to write his very first wind band composition.To capture the excitement of the rising curtain, the piece begins with magnificent brass ascending in 4th and 5th intervals. This is followed by the energetic entrance of the full ensemble like celebratory cannon fire. The following melody has many notes, yet is still simple. Do not overestimate it, just perform with driving momentum.In the slower middle section, utilize an instinctive vision of a scorching midsummer sun shimmering on the horizon. (Likely this shimmering sunset image was scored unconsciously, being composed in midsummer. A more applicable mood might be "Indian sunset". Perhaps this Indian style came from a capricious feeling of youthfulness.)The bright tempo and melody return for the last section. The climactic volley of musical display is like explosive fireworks as the last sounds echo throughout the concert hall.The composer wishes for performers to play from their hearts and not be limited by an analytic approach to the score-absolute accuracy is not required. Above all, the deepest pleasure for the composer is to know that teachers and students share the joy of music making with the intention of sharing it with others all over the world.With deepest gratitude, thank you for performing this work.
