This piece was composed as a joint commission by Hiroshi Sato, Music Director of the Hikari Wind Orchestra, and Naohiro Ichinari, Director of the Chiba Reimei High School Wind Orchestra.
The title Atala de Luclora can be translated into English as [The Radiance of Atala.] This work is inspired by my earlier piece, The Burial of Atala (unpublished), which I composed in 2003 as a gesture of gratitude when my mentor Hiroshi Sato transferred to another school. Drawing on this motif, I sought to depict the world portrayed in Girodet-Trioson`s painting, The Burial of Atala.
The painting captures a poignant moment: the deceased Atala, who took her own life; her grieving lover Chactas burying her; and the monk Aubry guiding them in her cavern burial. All three figures appear radiant, illuminated by sunlight streaming into the cavern.
In the intense, fast-paced sections, the piece explores the turmoil and anguish of Atala`s inner conflict. Torn between her vow to her mother to preserve her purity and her love for the irresistibly charming Chactas, her emotions clash fiercely. These feelings are mirrored by Chactas`s overwhelming sorrow at the loss of his beloved. This dual turmoil is vividly conveyed through swirling melodies, prominently featuring solos for piccolo and soprano saxophone.
In the latter half, gentler solos by flugelhorn and English horn symbolize the soft, comforting sunlight bathing the three figures. This [light] not only illuminates the darkness surrounding them but also delivers a sense of [dawn], representing a hopeful future. It depicts the moment when their despair gives way to vibrant hope and emotional salvation.
It is my deepest wish that both performers and listeners alike may experience a sense of light through this piece. If this music can bring even a hint of illumination, it will be my greatest joy as a composer.

(Masanori Taruya)