What is a youkai (monster)? Sometimes, it is passed down through generations to remind us of events that should be reproved. At other times, it represents the transformation of terrifying experiences that have occurred around us.

In this suite, four youkai from Japanese paintings and other sources are portrayed with technical and characteristic use of modern and contemporary sound materials.

The first movement, "Ubagabi - Witch's Fire," depicts an old woman youkai, "Ubagabi," who becomes enraged when kerosene is stolen from a shrine and attacks with a fireball. An ostinato with two chords and a fast tempo creates a sense of urgency.

The second, "Yuki Onna - Snow Woman," portrays the youkai Yuki Onna, who wears a white costume and freezes men to death with her cold breath. It features the tense solo of the Soprano Saxophone and the eerie scale of her icy breath.

The third portrays the first youkai, "Honekarakasa - Paper Umbrella Boy," who suddenly appears by the roadside and seduces a beautiful woman. Throughout the movement, modern scales and stylish rhythms are used in the themes.

The fourth and final is "Gyuuki - Ox Demon," a monster with a demonic face, cow horns, a spider's body, and a terrifyingly eerie presence. Known for its ferocity and cannibalistic tendencies, this monster is said to appear on the beach and is sometimes referred to as a prison guard in hell. A scherzo-style chromatic scale represents its swiftness, and all the themes from previous movements reappear.

While this composition is technically challenging, it can effectively showcase your skills at competitions and other settings. Additionally, many parts are based on Modes of Limited Transposition, which can be a helpful reference during practice.

(Kazunari Ozaki)