May 14th, 2024

A CRUEL ANGEL'S THESIS  FOR A NIIBORI GUITAR ORCHESTRA                                             | MUSIC DIRECTION TIPS

Cruel Angel’s Thesis is a popular Anime song which sounds good with Niibori orchestral guitars.  The impactful nuances and tuneful melodic passages are well carried by guitars, given the youthful tempo of the piece.  Here are some points to consider in performing this work:

• A cajon should be added to drive the groove of the piece, but don’t play it all the time.  Only guitars would sound better from measures 21-28.  These measures present the more melodic segments that create contrasts from the upbeat rhythmic segments.   Without a cajon, the gentler aspects of the classical guitars can now be heard with better clarity.  Thereafter, bring in the cajon to emphasize the beat/groove again.
• Do not begin the piece too slowly as this would minimize the fluidity of the melodic contours played by the Alto guitars. 
• In the Pre-chorus (measures 29-36), spend time refining the rhythmic syncopation which not only adds excitement, but also prepares the listener for the Chorus. 
• The Tremolo-glissando technique (measure 37) (played by the altos) needs more LH pressure on the string as the sliding down proceeds.  Do not hurt yourself! Placing sufficient pressure on the string (left hand) gives the glissando effect an aggressive charm.

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• In the percussive middle section (I call it the NRM section |Niibori Rhythm Method), have a slight pause before starting the section.  The bass family drives this grove, with the Cajon imitating the primes in a crotchet rhythm (Keep it Simple and strike Softly!)  The Altos could lift their Guitars and hit the backs if the rhythms permit.  Otherwise, it's best to place them faced down on their laps and use two hands to articulate the rhythms.
• From measures 37-48, the primes should keep to strumming (not too loud), even though the score has different notation types.  Sometimes all strings or just three strings, but always be aware of the balance.  
• For a climactic finish, a slight crescendo in the last four bars would be desirable.