Fanfare is a lively and uplifting piece that comes from the first movement of City in the Sky, Or. 4, a larger symphonic work that depicts a grand city imagined by a child gazing up into the clouds. The Fanfare begins with the Horn’s initial hints of the ascending fourths melody that dominates the entire piece. As more instruments join in, each voice vies for attention, creating a chaotic section that conveys the feeling of falling from the sky. Suddenly, the Horn resurfaces with a single tone, establishing a new tonal center and leading the piece into a more structured and tonal phase. The music builds up to a triumphant and energetic climax where the trombone melody soars over the ensemble’s driving arpeggios and bombastic percussion. The low brass then signals the ensemble with a quartal arpeggio, leading to a glorious finale as the music winds down towards the City in the Sky. This Fanfare delivers a show-stopping end that is sure to earn an enthusiastic response from the audience.
