This work was composed in honor of the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra for a special performance at Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis in April, 2026 in celebration of the 250th anniversary of our Democracy. The MSO joined 140 singers for a program entitled Sing Democracy 250. This orchestral fanfare opened the program. The work was originally entitled Fanfare: Democracy 250 but, beginning in 2027, the work’s title will be American Celebration Fanfare.
The music is heavily based on the uplifting and iconic song, America The Beautiful. As I composed this work, I pondered the incredible accomplishments of our Founding Fathers and the inspiring message in the Declaration of Independence. The piece embraces a celebratory tone, but I was also mindful of the challenges our Democracy faces. One can hear a certain urgency and call to action, especially in the opening of the piece and in the powerful brass before and after the middle, lyrical section featuring solo horn. The concluding section begins with the lowest instruments heralding the America the Beautiful tune, and the work ends with bold, celebratory fanfares in the brass.
This work would fit well with any program featuring American music, or as an opener for almost any program.
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