Excelcia Music Publishing Releases New Brass & Piano Duo by Beloved Composer, Yukiko Nishimura

Daylight Rhapsody, a new release from Excelcia Music Publishing, is an emotive new duo work from treasured composer and pianist Yukiko Nishimura. Originally written for the Euphonium and Piano, Daylight Rhapsody is also available as a duo between Trumpet and Piano, each version expressing the atmospheric nature of the piece while showcasing each instrument’s unique sound.  This collaborative Grade 4 work is perfect for chamber performances, recitals and collegiate auditions.

“In writing this piece, I wanted to incorporate modal scales and harmonies related to modern jazz.  I was driven to the Euphonium because I love its melty, colorful sound and flexibility. Daylight Rhapsody brings together these two different worlds in a unique and beautiful way, taking the audience on a ride through different atmospheres and emotions,” explains composer Yukiko Nishimura.

With the first of four sections of the piece, “Foggy,” Daylight Rhapsody begins with a darker mood with a mute being used for the Trumpet to sing long phrases with changing colors and dynamics. In the second and third sections “Breezy-1” and “Breezy-2,” the notes sparkle with liveliness, showing off the collaboration between duo partners. The piece slows down in the last section, “Airy,” where the music transitions from jazz-inspired to closing with a calmer feeling. Throughout, Daylight Rhapsody is a musically-collaborative experience with the pianist as a true duo partner, rather than a traditional accompanist.

A performance of Daylight Rhapsody took place at The US Army Euphonium and Tuba Workshop in Washington, D.C., on Friday, February 2, 2024. Mai Kokubo was featured on Euphonium, alongside composer Yukiko Nishimura on Piano.

Daylight Rhapsody is the newest addition to the Excelcia Solo Series. Both versions of Daylight Rhapsody are available for $25 each from music retailers, as well as the publisher.