Sharing the Sunset

Yamanashi Prefecture and the state of Iowa are sister states. As part of its 50th anniversary celebration, a joint concert between Hoover High School in Iowa and the joint group of Yamanashi Prefecture Honor Band was held. This work was commissioned for this performance by Hoover High School. It was premiered at Yamanashi Prefectural Cultural Hall on March 17, 2010, under the direction of band director Randall Hoepker.

Since it is a joint commemorative project, there are two different themes depicting America and Japan, and at the end of the piece, these two themes are united. A grand Major chord played by all opens the work, giving the strong impression of a blazing hot sun shining down. A gorgeous theme for the United States is presented by 3rd clarinets, alto clarinet, saxophones, horns, and euphonium in 4/4 meter. After it is repeated by treble voices, a relaxed euphonium line in 3/4 meter presents a lyrical Japanese theme then given to trombone.
These two striking themes integrate into one as tempo and style vary in the process. Concluding, the sunray theme from the beginning recapitulates with a sense of final fulfillment.
Though not technically difficult, agogic accents and orchestration are more complicated, so it is necessary to understand the score well in order to prepare.
I imagined a group of two distant cities and realized the title. We can always remember and share our time together by watching the sunset.

(Jun Nagao)