Printed set (Score & Parts)
[Part 1] Piccolo, Flute, Oboe, Violin, Eb Clarinet, Eb Alto Saxophone, Bb Clarinet, Bb Soprano Saxophone, Bb Trumpet
[Part 2] Bb Clarinet, Bb Trumpet, Eb Alto Saxophone, F Horn, Violin
[Part 3] Bb Clarinet, Bb Tenor Saxophone, F Horn, Viola, Bassoon, Trombone, Euphonium, Violoncello
[Part 4] Bb Bass Clarinet, Eb Baritone Saxophone, Bassoon, Bass Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, Violoncello, Contrabass
[Timpani (optional)]
[Percussion 1(optional)] Snare Drum, Hi-hat Cymbal, Surfdrum
[Percussion 2(optional)] Vibraphone, Bass Drum, 3 Toms, Suspended Cymbal
A much desired and ideal "summer" scene which I pursued for many years has been fully expressed in this work. As a sister work to "Snow Wind for saxophone quartet" composed in early 2017, it features thrilling harmony, rhythms, and mixed meters.
The structure consists of Introduction + ABCBA + Coda and it can be considered an irregular ternary form. Allegro A section is tonal and lively; B section of Allegro ostinato atonal with mixed meter; C section Adagio includes modulations leading to the second half where solo bass part represents the sound of the sea in the background. Try expressing three types of summer: fun and exciting, summer as you had never had before, and summer full of adventure.
The recording, which is also the premiere of the work, has a brass quartet and percussion. As a flexible ensemble it is accessible for various instrumentation including strings. Percussion is optional. If their number is limited, play the first percussion part. If you have a good percussionist, try to combine the 1st and 2nd parts. When playing with a large number of people, instructions for the minimum tacets are stated. However, depending on the dynamics and the artistic interpretation of specific sections, be attentive to selecting appropriate instruments to rest.
(Souhei Kano)