"Fanfares is not based on a hymn tune, or on an extra-musical story, or any historical event - it is simply what it is, a ""Celebration"" work. Since it was written for a large symphonic band, I knew I had some extra players available and the idea of alternating brass trios was an easy choose. However, my idea was not to make this a ""four trios accompanied by a band"" work, but rather a composition where the band segment is one of five contributing groups to the overall concept.
My best wishes go out to the Missouri East-Central District Seven for their 25th Anniversary High School All-District Band.
The Four Brass Trios in ""Fanfares"" area meant to be somewhat antiphonal and set to each side of the band proper. However, they are not to be placed a long distance from the band, but rather to each side near the front of the audience. If the stage is wide enough, the trios might be simply stage right and stage left with some small separation. On a flat floor, the trios can be more widely spaced, but the intention is simply to give a left to right, back and forth, perception of alternating frontal sound source to the listener.
Trios 1 and 4 should be on the right side of the stage, separated by enough distance to be perceived as two sets of three players. Trio 1 should be closest to the band proper.
To the left side of the stage are Trio 2 and 3 - again, both separated by enough distance as to be perceived as two sets of three players. Trio 2 should be closest to the ensemble".
