For this Symphonic Band concert, directed by Dr. Richard Frey, the ensemble will be performing Japanese traditional and contemporary works. The highlight of the evening will be the famous Japanese work, Gloriosa, composed by ITO Yasuhide. This work is inspired by mid-16th century songs of the Kakure-Kirishitan (Crypto-Christians) of Kyushu, who continued to practice their faith surreptitiously after the ban of Christianity.

“Nagasaki district in Kyushu region continued to accept foreign culture even during the seclusion period, as Japan’s only window to the outer world. After the proscription of Christianity, the faith was preserved and handed down in secret in the Nagasaki and Shimabara areas of Kyushu region. My interest was piqued by the way in which the Latin words of Gregorian chants were gradually ‘Japanized’ during the 200 years of hidden practice of the Christian faith. That music forms the basis of Gloriosa.” – Yasuhide Ito, Composer