Nozomu Noro

Happiness Depends Upon Ourselves

Commissioned by Ichikawa Subaru High School Brass Band in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, it was composed for small ensemble in 2021, followed by this concert band adaptation.

"Happiness depends upon ourselves" is a thought bequeathed by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle. In this uncertain world where we no longer know what is good and what is bad, it may be impossible to understand and be close to all people's feelings no matter how much we care for them. However, I composed this song in the hope that it will help those who encounter it to face music in a positive way, even if only a little.


The piece is in a simple three-part form, with an exhilarating G major theme and a broadly sung middle section that builds to a climax including modulations.

Can be performed by 21 or more players.