Symphony IZUMO (301) One of the Masterpieces of Hiro Fujikake
The first performance was given by a 30-member chamber orchestra with synthesizer called “Solo Orchestra”. After that it was rewritten for full orchestra and wind orchestra.
Duration: Approx.32min.
Completed on 21st November, 2004
First performed on 19th May, 2005 at Tokyo Metropolitan Hibiya Public Hall
Princess Hisako from the Japanese royal family attended, and it was a great success.
It stands as one of the masterpieces of Hiro Fujikake’s symphonic work. This work was dedicated to Mr. Takamasa Senge, who took over duty at Izumo Grand Shrine as the 84th chief priest in 2002.
Thirty top musicians were selected for only one night. The performance was with chamber orchestra with synthesizer for the premier, and later this work was rewritten for full orchestra. The symphony consists of four movements. Hiro worked on this piece tirelessly, pouring his whole heart and soul into it. It took more than two and half years to complete. This music was inspired by the history of IZUMO, which is believed to be “the land of gods” described in “Kojiki,” the oldest extant manuscript of myths and legends in Japan. However, the music does not depict any history or mythology. Instead, main theme of this piece is a meditation on love, being of a thoughtful mind, and a wish for “world peace.” (manuscript:184pages / Duration: approx.32min.)
“Izumo” is the name of an ancient Japanese Kingdom (more than 1000 years ago) which was in the northwestern part of Japan.
—Power with Love—
1st Movement——The Begining [7min]
2nd Movement——Love from IZUMO [8min]
3rd Movement——8 Headed Dragon [6min]
4th Movement——-Soar to the New World [11min]
Letter from Ralph Mace, Music Producer(Hiro worked with him when he release the CDs with Sir James Galway);
I listened to the CD of Izumo yesterday. It is wonderful. I am so impressed and enjoyed it so much. It was a very cold day, so I went to my studio, turned up the heater and switched on the hi-fi (nice and loud!). Immediately I found myself in a totally new, powerful world. The dramatic impact is enormous, the melodies flow like a mighty river and the orchestral colorings are magical. Congratulations! What a long way it seems from the time we first met in my office in London. And how your talent has blossomed into something so very special.”
