Takemitsu: Complete Original Solo Guitar Works

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Japanese classical music with Toru Takemitsu's "Complete Original Solo Guitar Works," a captivating collection of 16 tracks that showcase the composer's unique voice and mastery of the guitar. Released on April 1, 2014, via Naxos, this album is a testament to Takemitsu's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the genre.

Spanning a total of 61 minutes, the album features a diverse range of compositions, each offering a distinct musical experience. From the hauntingly beautiful "Hika, In Memoriam Toru Takemitsu" to the intricate "Folios" series, and the evocative "Subete wa usuakari no naka de (All in Twilight)," Takemitsu's compositions are a journey through his artistic evolution and his deep connection to nature and Japanese culture.

The album also includes charming pieces like "A Piece for Guitar, For the Birthday of Sylvano Bussotti" and "Equinox," as well as delightful guitar arrangements of popular songs such as "Yesterday" and "Here, There and Everywhere" from The Beatles. The three-part "Mori no naka de (In the Woods)" series is a standout, each movement inspired by a different painting, adding a visual dimension to the listening experience.

Performed by the renowned guitarist Shin-ichi Fukuda, this album is a testament to his virtuosity and deep understanding of Takemitsu's music. Whether you're a fan of classical guitar, Japanese music, or simply looking to explore new musical horizons, "Complete Original Solo Guitar Works" is an essential addition to your collection.

Toru Takemitsu, a pioneering figure in Japanese classical music, is renowned for his unique ability to blend Eastern and Western musical traditions. Born in Tokyo, Takemitsu was largely self-taught, developing a distinctive style that subtly manipulates instrumental and orchestral timbre. His compositions, which often fuse sound with silence and tradition with innovation, have earned him global acclaim, making him the first East Asian composer to achieve worldwide recognition. Takemitsu's extensive body of work includes several hundred independent pieces, film scores for over ninety movies, and twenty published books on aesthetics and music theory. His musical journey began at the age of 16, inspired by Western music heard through radio broadcasts during the post-war 1940s. Takemitsu's influence extends beyond his compositions, as he was also a founding member of the experimental music group Jikken Kobo. His works continue to be celebrated and performed by orchestras worldwide, showcasing his enduring impact on the music world.