CSU Symphonic Band to Perform Sacred Japanese Composition

by Brandon Adams

Fort Collins– The Colorado State University School of Music, Theatre, and Dance presents The Symphonic Band, conducted by Richard Frey, on Feb. 28 at 7:30 p.m. The performance will be held in the Griffin Concert Hall at the University Center for the Arts, located at 1400 Remington Street.

The highlight piece to be performed is the Japanese composition, Gloriosa. This work is inspired by mid-16^th 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

Continuing this spring, venue seating is reserved. Tickets are no charge for CSU students, $3 for youth (under 18), $12 for seniors (62+), and $14 for the public. Tickets are available at the University Center for the Arts (UCA) ticket office in the UCA lobby Monday through Friday, 3:30-5:30 p.m. and 60 minutes prior to performances, by phone at (970) 491-ARTS (2787), or online at www.CSUArtsTickets.com. Youth tickets must be purchased in person at the Ticket Office. All tickets are subject to a $1 ticket fee for both online and at-the-door purchases. Advance ticket purchase is recommended to avoid lines and further at-the-door fees.

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