Makam Spiritus

"Makam" is a term used in the classical Arabic music traditions of countries like Turkey and Iran, referring to scales, modes, or musical styles. Inspired by this concept, I wrote a wind band piece titled "Makam Dance" in 2014, attempting to express the essence of Makam music through wind instruments. I was truly grateful for the warm reception the piece received and was delighted to discover how many more captivating aspects of Makam remain to be explored. That realization led me to write a follow-up piece as part of a developing series: "Makam Spiritus."
In this second piece, I based the melodic creation on Makam scales while incorporating Western musical flavors to achieve a more modern interpretation. With its vibrant energy and dramatic character, I believe the piece offers an even more expansive musical world than its predecessor.

The opening solo is written for baritone saxophone, and although it features a high register that demands technical skill, I chose this instrument deliberately. While the tenor saxophone can produce the same range with a smoother tone and less difficulty, using the baritone saxophone allows for a more acrobatic and expressive performance. That said, it's also important to prioritize the overall balance of the ensemble, so feel free to assign the solo to a different instrument if needed.
In faster sections, be sure to align the vertical ensemble precisely - tight coordination is key. Establishing a solid percussion-driven groove will create a greater sense of cohesion in the full band sound. For the chorale section in the middle, I prepared three different orchestrations: (1) a choral version, (2) one making use of a five-octave marimba, and (3) one centered around a woodwind ensemble. Each version suits different atmospheres, so I encourage performers to explore the options.
Though the tempo accelerates in the latter half, try not to rush. Emphasize rhythm when appropriate and sing out the lyrical sections - crafting each passage carefully will only enhance the piece's richness. Every part contains elements of Makam, so discovering those details will make the experience even more rewarding.
Lastly, this piece was commissioned by Kibougaoka High School, Fukuoka, Japan, and completed in 2016. Their spirited and moving performance brought hope, courage, and inspiration to many, transcending the music itself. I can still vividly recall the faces of the band members from that time.

(Hiroaki Kataoka)