Miao! for Tenor Horn Octet

Composer Masato Yatani

Miao! is a small, fun, and playful piece—written (surprisingly!) for tenor horn octet—with a touch of jazz and J-POP flavour. The music depicts a group of feline characters joyfully playing together, full of charm, mischief, and lighthearted energy.

Throughout most of the piece, the eight horns are divided into two groups: one presents lively melodic lines while the other provides rhythmic and harmonic support. This call-and-response texture highlights both ensemble unity and individual character. In the middle section, each player gets a moment in the spotlight through ad libitum or written solos, adding spontaneity and a sense of playful freedom to the music.

Miao! is ideal for special occasions where a larger number of tenor horn players can be gathered, but it is also flexible in instrumentation and can be performed by eight cornets, baritones, or euphoniums. When performed by euphoniums, especially in the bass parts (notably the 4th and 8th parts), players are encouraged to lower certain passages by an octave where musically appropriate to enhance stability and depth.

Bright, accessible, and full of character, Miao! offers both performers and audiences an enjoyable musical experience.

Instrumentation 8 tenor horns (tenor horn octet)

Genres Jazz / Pops

Duration 4 minutes (approx.)

Format Digital download (PDF)