■2018　3rd Prize Kotaro Watahiki (Japan)
The Rainbow

１．How did you know this competition? and what motivated you to apply?
When I was looking for works to sing with my high school students in my music class, I came to find this ICCC Japan web page. I’ve been thinking about composing choral works, but at that time I wasn’t sure how I can deal with copyright of Japanese song lyrics. Since this competition only allow Japanese & English lyrics, so I thought I can try it with using old English lyrics. Mostly I’ve composed works for chamber music, and only during my high school days I’ve composed choral works.

２．How did you feel when you won the competition?
I lost my word when I heard it with joy and excitement. I really appreciate the great performance.

3．Please send message for following applicants.
For those who’d like to make your work being performed with a good quality of voice & sound, I recommend you join this competition. Also, I believe there are more possibilities in choral music, and with all of you I’d like to explore it in this unique competition.