Library
Program Notes
SHU
by: Somei Satoh
SHU (Spells)
The word SHU (or "JU" as a secondary pronunciation) is derived from Buddhism and originally meant "incantation." However, the work has two contradictory meanings. The first is a curse; a wrath so deeply rooted in the feeling of hatred so as to damage someone's health or destroy a person's life. The other is a prayer for happiness; a wish to heal sickness and for the children to grow up healthy. This piece is comprised of four movements, and each movement reflects a different meaning of SHU. For instance, one movement symbolizes a mother's intent prayer for the peaceful happiness of her child. It is my pleasure to dedicate SHU to the Bang on a Can All-Stars, who commissioned this piece. --Somei Satoh
SHU was commissioned for the Bang on a Can All-Stars with the generous support of the Japan Foundation through the Performing Arts JAPAN program.