DIVERTIMENTO-Percussion Trio

Commissioned in 2009 by Kita Junior High School in Kitami City, Hokkaido. The original title was "ELYSIUM", but I changed it to "DIVERTIMENTO" in pursuit of more freedom of thought. I first met the three performers who premiered this piece when they were still in the 6th grade of elementary school. For their greeting, they played a concerto by Jolivet (not only alone but also with two pianists). The vivid memory became the foundation of this work, which is in the style of a multi-percussion solo and an ensemble of keyboard instruments (including percussion). The following is part of the program note I wrote at the time of the premiere. The piece begins with a monotonous wooden drum that gradually begins to develop a pitch, leading to a solo performance centered on membranophones. With this as the axis, the rhythm and melody change shape and color as they travel through "paradise". The "paradise" refers to a world filled with music and percussion. I look forward to a performance filled with hope that will take us to such an ideal world.

(Jerry Grasstail)