Who is the most famous violinist in Japan? Most people would probably say ‘Taro Hakase!’ In this article, I will introduce some pieces I recommend by Japanese violinist Taro Hakase and how difficult they would be to play on the violin. This is all based on my own opinions!
01."Another Sky" Difficulty: Elementary
This is the song that is elegantly played in the cabin when you board a blue airplane. Just listening to this song makes me feel like I'm about to take off into the sky on an airplane, and this favorite song of mine gives me a sense of excitement about traveling.
The difficulty level for violin is beginner. The tempo is not that fast and the key is not that hard, so I recommend this song for beginners. If you have just started playing the violin, please take this opportunity to practice!
02."Sunflower" Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
This is the opening theme song for the NHK television series Teppan. As the name suggests, it is a gentle song that makes you feel warm and fuzzy like the warm sunshine when you listen to it.
The level of difficulty for violin performance is beginner to intermediate. The tempo is not fast, so it is easy to play, but there are many position shifts in the left hand, making it a little difficult.
03."Etopirica" Difficulty: Intermediate - Advanced
This is the ending theme of the popular TV programme Jyonetsu Tairiku. It is a song that gives you a strange feeling just by listening to it, and features a unique phrase that you cannot forget once you hear it.
The difficulty level for violin performance is intermediate to advanced. The tempo is somewhat brisk and there are many left hand position shifts, so it will take some time to master.
04."Jyonetsu Tairiku" Difficulty: Advanced
What comes into your mind when you think about Taro Hakase? I'm sure there are many people who would answer "Jyonetsu Tairiku"! This is a well-known piece by Taro Hakase, and was used as the opening song for the TV programme Jyonetsu Tairiku (Passionate Continent) on TV Asahi. It features a hot melody that you can't forget once you hear it, and what's more, Taro Hakase playing it is very cool!
I would say that the violin performance difficulty is rated as advanced. The tempo is so fast and both the right and left hands have to move busily and it’s very difficult to play. However, it would definitely be cool if you could play this song, so please practice hard and learn to play it.
How was it? Taro Hakase is one of my favorite violinists, so be sure to check out his new songs in the future! Thank you for reading to the end.