Performance Tips

According to composer Mr. Tokuyama, when performing this piece, it is crucial to feel and express the "presence" between notes and between measures, as well as the "ma" (space/interval), "tame" (hesitation/preparation), and "kiai" (spirit/energy) that emerge from the blank spaces of a painting.

Rather than the light movements of someone wearing Western clothes, imagine the gestures of Noh theater or kimono. If you perform feeling meaning in each movement, it will lead to a performance filled with tension and spirit. Furthermore, the harmonic changes should evoke changes in light illuminating a room; moments such as gently swaying light or the landscape darkening by one shade due to a downlight should also be cherished.

Mr. Tokuyama also states that the final moment of the piece, just before turning over the sleeve, and the section where a crescendo is made without sounding notes, require greater dignity along with "kiai" (spirit/energy).