Takachiho Gorge by James Finamore
Takachiho Gorge (高千穂峡谷), composed by James Finamore, was the winning piece of the Dolce Hogaku Ensemble's 2019 Annual Commissioned Composer Selection, lead by Sakata Seizan (坂田誠山).
Inspired by the natural landscapes of Japan, the piece is a sonic representation of Takachiho Gorge (高千穂峡谷), located in the northernmost part of Miyazaki Prefecture (宮崎県).
The piece begins with the shakuhachi playing airy tones representing the mist that collects in the valley during the early mornings of spring. As the flow of the river picks up in the koto, rays of sunlight shine down to dissipate the veil of mist. As the mist clears, the beauty of the surrounding landscape becomes apparent. The lush green trees, the impressive beauty and power of the Mananai Falls (真名井の滝), and the megalithic canyon walls that stretch up into the sky.
Performed by the Dolce Hogaku Ensemble
Shakuhachi 尺八: 坂田誠山
Koto 箏 1: 梅田佳予子
Koto 箏 2: 長瀬寿賀子
© 2018 James Finamore - ASCAP
All Rights Reserved.
Video made by James Finamore.
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Learn more about the performers in the Dolce Hogaku Ensemble.
http://dolce-hg.org/