Fanfare

This is the second instalment of a new project - a celebration of Arthur Wills around what would have been his 100th birthday. Described in his obituary as a "towering and transformative figure in 20th century English cathedral music", Arthur Wills was renowned for breaking the traditional, conservative mould of Anglican Church music.
The inspiration behind this three-month celebration of Arthur and his music is deeply personal. He is the reason I wanted to become an organist—most especially because of his recording of the Franck Final from his EMI Great Cathedral Organ series. But my fascination also comes from the way an instrument and its building can shape and inform the performer—something that, of course, also fascinates our dear colleague and friend, McKinndl.
Written in 1960, Fanfare is a compact but dramatic miniature which shows off the solo reed(s) to great effect.
Dedicated to Colin and Rachel, Arthur's son and daughter the work has a truly celebratory character.
In this recording the organ of Blackburn Cathedral does duty as a stand in for the “Wills” Ely Cathedral organ.