Amazing Grace

Commissioned Arrangement for Panda Wind Orchestra, 2018"Amazing Grace" is an 18th-century hymn with lyrics written by British clergyman John Newton. Its gentle, prayer-like melody and timeless message quietly encourage us to keep moving forward in life, have transcended generations, and continue to be loved by people all over the world. In this arrangement, the goal was to preserve the beauty and flow of the original melody while using harmonic changes to gently reveal shifting landscapes, all within a simple and elegant structure.

[Instrumentation]
To make this piece accessible to a wider range of wind bands, numerous optional parts have been included in the publication. The minimum number of players required for performance is 18, allowing small ensembles to play the piece as well. If there is only one bassoon player, please perform the lower part.

[Chorus Part]
While this arrangement can certainly be performed by a wind band alone, it was originally conceived with the idea of creating a piece that the audience could sing along with, bringing performers and listeners together. The chorus appears twice, at rehearsal marks C and G, making it a great opportunity to invite the audience to hum along. Additionally, from the pickup to G through to the second measure of H, parts that carry the melody may be sung instead of played, further enhancing the sense of unity with the audience.

(Takashi Haga)