Score
Oscar Wilde, author of Salome, described the scene simply as "Salome dances seven veils'dance." Though the goal is seduction of her stepfather King Herod, Salome's actions aren't overtly erotic, at least initially. A manic introduction in the score is halted by the dancer, who begins again with a languid, deliberate act of attrition, as the orchestra presents heavily ornamented long tones, interspersed with waltzes and teasing melismas. Salome's tempo gradually increases as she sheds her veils in a final frenzy, then collapses as though in exhaustion. After a moment's pause, she rises again to throw herself at Herod's feet in triumph.
An arrangement of Salome was commissioned by Tsuman Junior High School Wind Orchestra for use at the All Japan Band Competition. That version was two thirds of this work; the remaining third was too technical for use at that time. This full version was completed for a recording by the Ground Self Defense Force Central Band for the Brain Company/Bravo Music CD "New Arrangement Collections Vol. 8."
(Kazuhiro Morita)
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