Composer

:

Yuquijiro Yocoh

Genre

:

Chamber

Average_duration

:

6:08

"Sakura" is a popular Japanese folk song that has been arranged for various instruments, including the guitar. The guitar arrangement was composed by Yuquijiro Yocoh in 1954 and has since become a staple in the classical guitar repertoire. The piece is comprised of two movements, with the first movement being a slow and contemplative melody that is meant to evoke the beauty and fragility of the cherry blossom, or sakura, which is a symbol of Japan. The second movement is more lively and upbeat, with a faster tempo and more complex fingerpicking patterns. This movement is meant to represent the joy and celebration that comes with the arrival of spring and the blooming of the cherry blossoms. The piece is characterized by its use of traditional Japanese melodies and scales, as well as its intricate fingerpicking patterns and use of harmonics. The first movement is played entirely in the key of D major, while the second movement shifts between D major and D minor. The piece also features a number of dynamic contrasts, with the first movement being played softly and delicately, while the second movement is played with more energy and intensity. "Sakura" was first premiered in 1954 and has since become one of the most popular pieces in the classical guitar repertoire. Its popularity is due in part to its accessibility, as it is relatively easy to play compared to other classical guitar pieces, while still being musically satisfying and emotionally evocative. The piece has been recorded by numerous guitarists, including John Williams, Julian Bream, and Sharon Isbin, and has been arranged for a variety of other instruments, including the piano, violin, and flute.

More....