Festive Overture

This work was commissioned by the civilian wind orchestra Shimizu il compagno, based in Shimizu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, as a commemorative work for their 10th Anniversary. The world premiere was performed by the ensemble, conducted by Hiromichi Hamada in 2017. Having held discussions with the head of the orchestra, Tomohiro Tsuji, and members of the group, Satoshi Yagisawa settled on a central motif for this commemorative work: fellow, or companion, in the sense of the Italian il compagno, which features in the orchestra’s name.

The work also strives to describe the characteristic friendliness of Shimizu city, a place known for itswarmth and kindness which is visible from both Mount Fuji and the sea. The composition is written in Yagisawa’s typical dramatic style with an atmosphere of scintillating light and lyrical warmth, making it an excellent choice for opening a concert.