Orchestra Composer Highlight on YUKIKO NISHIMURA Tuesday, December 17, 2024
recommended by Austin Swack, Instrumental Education Specialist
Angelic Star by Yukiko Nishimura, Grade 1.5
This grade 1.5 piece uses staccato articulations to depict the celestial twinkling of stars in the night sky. In bright D major, players get to explore the dance-like feeling of 3/4 time with a few new notes on the violin E string. A contrasting lyrical section presents a legato theme with easy slurs and beautiful harmonies between the sections. The sparkling piece ends with a return to the light opening motif, ending softly like the fading stars at dawn.
Colorful Sunrise by Yukiko Nishimura, Grade 1.5
“Colorful Sunrise” is the latest addition to the repertoire of developing String Orchestra by composer Yukiko Nishimura. This piece offers young musicians a chance to explore the harmonic intrigue that Nishimura is known for, allowing them to grow musically while having fun. “Colorful Sunrise” will give your students an opportunity to showcase their skills and provide them with a sense of accomplishment that will inspire them to keep playing.
The Flow of the Tide by Yukiko Nishimura, Grade 3
“The Flow of the Tide” by Yukiko Nishimura captures the feel of a flowing tide, mainly represented through the melodic line. Layers of harmony give the feeling of the tide’s ebb and flow, the splashing spray, and the sea’s changing colors. In addition to the feel of the waves, there is also a contrasting brightness and tenderness. Your orchestra will fall in love with the many moods of this stunning work.
Orchid Fantasy by Yukiko Nishimura, Grade 4.5
Yukiko’s musical sensibility is on full display in this lovely new work for the String Orchestra. Wonderful scoring and beautiful lines make this an enjoyable work for both the musicians and a captivated audience. Stretch the musicianship of your ensemble with this one!
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About the Author:
Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!