Katana Kaji
| Date Composed: | 2012 |
| Composer: | Aki Takahashi |
| Arrangement: | Aki Takahashi |
| Premiere Performance: | November 10, 2012 – Enwave Theatre |
In Japan, the sword is considered sacred and inviolable. A sword blade must not be broken, dull or bent.
The skill of Japanese swordsmith is world renowned. They developed a special process, combining hard iron around softer iron core, creating a laminated sword which was capable of maintaining a very sharp cutting edge while also being resistant to shattering. It is a dangerous, physically demanding and laborious process which involves much folding and forge-welding.