The song of the spirit

Infos :

This work commissioned by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Eastern Band. Premiered on September 2, 2022.

Beneath us, a lot of nature and human life overlap. Times of turbulence, times of peace, the ferocity of nature, and blessings. Complex layers have been created over large periods of time, such as 100 or 1000 years. The strength of will necessary to "live naturally" is not something that can be easily acquired. We are where we are today because of the accumulation of spirits of those who have protected our lives. The work is composed of three large melodies and motifs using perfect fifths. The first and second themes of the first half are accompanied by large undulations and rich chords. Expressing "turbulence" and "the impermanent flow of time". The third theme, sung slowly by a solo alto saxophone, is an ode to the beauty of nature. The development part resembles a dance, and gives a sense of movement and "fight". Then, forcefully "open up". An interlude inspired by prayer and a quiet solo bassoon sing. And the solemn first theme is reproduced. Finally, the horn, trombone, and chimes quietly end with a C sound, symbolizing "the eternity of natural life" and "the earth."