Notes from the composer:

I resolved to write a work for wind band that was simple in melodic and textural expression. Certainly, the title conveys reverence and reflection, a programmatic rendering central to the inspiration of the theme: a musical entreaty for, and on behalf of, a part of the world often idealized in western thinking.

Although melodic and harmonic compositional impressions are incorporated as customary musical factors in the aforementioned cultural sorting, the inspiration for Prayer for Asia is based upon an original hymn tune and text containing stanzas and chorus:

Holy is the Lamb, Agnus Dei,
聖なるものは、主なる神の子羊
Holy is the Lamb that takes our sins away!
聖なる神の子羊は、私たちの罪を許してくださいました！
Worthy is the Lamb, sing in one accord,
たたえられるべき神の子羊よ、今、私たちは心一つにして歌います。
Sing to Him ‘Hossana!’ Jesus Christ is Lord!
さぁ主に歌え、”ホザナ！神に祝福あれ！”　イエス・キリストこそ、我らの主！
Alleluia to the King, prayers and praises offering,
ハレルヤ、王なる我らの主よ、私たちはいつも祈りと讃美をあなたにささげます。
Alleluia to the King, prayers and praises offering.
ハレルヤ、王なる我らの主よ、私たちはいつも祈りと讃美をあなたにささげます。

Prayer for Asia is dedicated to my friend and colleague Takayoshi “Tad” Suzuki and was premiered in Las Vegas by the UNLV Wind Orchestra on October 2, 2008 with Professor Suzuki conducting.

-Anthony Labounty

Anthony LaBounty is an Associate Professor of Music at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.