Nazareth College Symphonic Band Kevin Leysath II, assistant conductor April 26, 2023 Consciously (or unconsciously!), we erect invisible walls around us all the time. Whether in the form of "writer's block" or by running into the metaphorical wall, the truth is, these invisible walls are there only because we put them there. By stating that we are stuck, we mentally place barriers between ourselves and our goals. This energetic work is all about breaking through these barriers and finding a way forward. The music a joyous celebration of creativity and possibility. It reminds us that, just as we can erect a wall around us, we can also smash through that wall into a world of possibility. It is a powerful reminder that there is always a way forward. - Brian Balmages

Want the Score and parts? Email me: kleysathiimusic@gmail.com Nazareth College Wind Symphony Kevin Leysath II, conductor March 24, 2023 Intro 0:00 Yasuke 1:25 Yasuke was the first samurai of African descent. He served under Oda Nobunaga, one of the most important feudal lords in Japanese history who was a unifier of the country. This piece of music represents his journey from what we now call Mozambique to his setting in Japan, where he conducted his life as a samurai. You will hear the mournful atmosphere of the Mozambique national anthem in the beginning to signify him being taken from to his homeland and then a moment of uncertainty as to what lies next for him farther east. The grand introductory section, featuring rhythmic patterns in the ensemble accompanied by dense percussion, cross-pollinates the polyrhythmic tendencies of African musical cultures and the pentatonic modality of music in Asia. The music goes on to highlight moments, such as the awe that came over the community as they saw Yasuke walk through the town with his black skin (which they had never seen before) and great height. The next section highlights the soignée appearance of him in his kimono, leading to a heroic section of great unity while musical themes stay constant, even as textures change around them. The rich harmony throughout the piece conveys the beauty of Yasuke and the nobility of his life as a samurai.

Music by Kevin Leysath II

Nazareth College Wind Symphony.