Fanfare

Dr Francis Alan Jackson CBE (born 2 October 1917) is pre-eminent as a British organist and composer.

A popular figure in the musical profession, both nationally and internationally, Jackson was born in Malton, Yorkshire and received his early education as a Chorister at York Minster under his precursor, the legendary Sir Edward Bairstow. Himself Organist of York Minster from 1946 until his official retirement in 1982, Jackson played for the wedding of Elizabeth II's cousin Prince Edward, Duke of Kent to Katherine Worsley on 8 June 1961.

As well as having given recitals and concerts all over the world, Jackson has made numerous recordings of solo organ music, and of choral music with York Minster Choir.

This "Fanfare" was written in 1956, and is dedicated to "John Bradley," whoever he is/was... ;-)

It can be found in the Oxford University Press book, "A Festive Album." This is NOT "The Archbishop's Fanfare," a piece that seems to be more well-known.

I first heard this work on an OLD Saga recording, and immediately, it became my FAVORITE fanfare!

When I had a chance to meet and work with Francis Jackson, I asked him to play it! ;-)

I always fear that I take it too fast, so, I forced myself to hold it back. Then, it seemed to slow. However, I checked Jackson's own performance time, and mine is very close to his.

At any rate, check out the cool harmonic progression just before the tuba comes in for the first time. It reminds me of Dupre...

CRANK IT UP! :-)