Chasing Sakura by Seonaid Aitken Ensemble

CHASING SAKURA
In Japan, the cherry blossom (sakura) is widely celebrated. It is symbolic of rebirth - springtime, hope, optimism - but is also a reminder of the impermanence of life. Its beauty is wonderful yet fleeting. Having lived in Tokyo and experienced Hanami - the flower ‘viewing’ or celebration of sakura - Seonaid has drawn a parallel with this season to her life now in Scotland. After a serious accident, Seonaid found herself unable to walk and was forced to slow down and focus on her well-being. During a lengthy and isolated recovery due to ‘lockdown’ she was able to explore her local surroundings and discover the transformative and healing powers of nature. As both mind and body gradually healed, she found a new perspective. Through jazz, classical and folk idioms, Seonaid’s musical suite ‘Chasing Sakura’ - originally commissioned by Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival in 2021 - was written for a hand-picked ensemble of string quintet and saxophone/flute. Featuring cross-genre and improvising musicians, it follows the lifespan of the cherry blossom and explores the themes of a fleeting but beautiful life, lived to the fullest.

“This is healing music, life affirming, positive, engaging, melodic - a real thrill!”
ABERDEEN JAZZ FESTIVAL

“uplifting, optimistic…evocative and emotional…enchanting and ethereal”
LONDON JAZZ NEWS

Tracklist

1.	Chasing Sakura: Awakening	2:22

2.	Chasing Sakura: Chasing Sakura	5:58

3.	Chasing Sakura: Beauty & Wonder	4:06

4.	Chasing Sakura: Hanami	5:30

5.	Chasing Sakura: Spring Song	4:27

6.	Chasing Sakura: The Walk	3:28

7.	Chasing Sakura: Sakura Snowstorm	4:30

8.	Chasing Sakura: Impermanence	4:51

9.	Chasing Sakura: Rebirth	4:22

10.	Chasing Sakura: Hanami (Reprise)	1:40

Credits

released April 29, 2022

Seonaid Aitken - violin & vocals
Katrina Lee - violin
Patsy Reid - viola
Alice Allen - cello
Emma Smith - bass
Helena Kay - tenor sax & flute

Music composed by Seonaid Aitken.
Recorded, mixed and mastered by Stuart Hamilton at Castlesound Studios, Pencaitland, Scotland.

‘Chasing Sakura’ (album cover) painting by Kirsty Matheson.
Design by Ali Aitken.

Seonaid Aitken is supported by Creative Scotland and PRS Foundation’s Women Make Music.

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