Commissioned by the Sapporo Wind Band, for its twentieth anniversary of foundation.

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The title derives from Ito's 1986 work Prelude to an Unfinished Opera, commissioned by the Tsukuba University Band. Ito quotes many melodies from his prior band works, such as Progress (1979), Evocation (1982), and Sinfonia (1985).

 

This is a mature, dramatic three-part work full of excitement and thoughtful lyricism, reflecting the composer's admiration of Richard Strauss. Beautifully scored music that is not afraid to use silence for dramatic effect and well crafted soli percussion writing. A challenging work that builds to a dramatic climax. An excellent way to open any concert.

 

Instrumentation
 

Piccolo
Flutes in C 1, 2, 3

Oboes 1, 2

Bassons 1, 2 

Clarinet in Eb

Clarinets in Bb 1, 2, 3

Alto Clarinet

Bass Clarinet

Alto Saxophone 1, 2

Tenor Saxophone

Baritone Saxophone

 

Trumpets in Bb 1, 2, 3

Horns in F 1, 2, 3, 4 

Trombones 1, 2, 3 

Euphoniums

Tubas

String Bass

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Timpani

Percussion 1 - Snare drum, Suspended Cymbals, Crash Cymbals, Tam-tam, 3 Toms, Triangle, Bongos

Percussion 2 - Bass Drum, Suspended Cymbals, Crash Cymbals, Triangle, Tam-Tam

Percussion 3 - Glockenspiel, Xylophone, Vibraphone, Chimes,