Famed composer John Williams has composed “Fanfare for Fenway” as a tribute to Boston’s Fenway Park in celebration of its 100th anniversary.
According to the press release:
The piece, just over three minutes long, was recorded Saturday, March 24, at Boston’s Symphony Hall, and performed by musicians from the Boston Pops Orchestra with Williams conducting.
Maestro Williams is a loyal and passionate fan of the Red Sox and Fenway Park, and his music has had a long-time connection to the team and ballpark. A portion of the 2005 Opening Day Ring Ceremony, celebrating the first Red Sox Championship in 86 years, was set to a John Williams medley that featured the “Main Theme” from Star Wars, “Raiders March” from Indiana Jones, and the “Theme” from Jurassic Park, performed by musicians from the Boston Pops. Williams’ music was also featured prominently during the 2008 Opening Day Ceremony as players received their World Series Rings and the second World Championship banner in four years was hoisted to the composers “A Hymn To New England,” performed by the Boston Pops Brass Ensemble. That opening ceremony also featured the “Main Theme” to Superman, “Throne and End Title” from Star Wars: Episode IV, and “Raiders March” from Indiana Jones.
Williams, as indicated above, is no stranger to pieces celebrating sports, though he is most often celebrated for his memorable film scores. His “Olympic Fanfare and Theme,” written for the 1984 Los Angeles Summer Olympics, is still heard during Olympic Games to this day. He also composed for the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, and the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. Several of these can be found on the Summon the Heroes CD, which I heartily recommend.
He also directed the Boston Pops as they performed the National Anthem for Game One of the 2007 World Series at Fenway Park (Boston swept the Series, winning four games)¸ and he has had the honor of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at a Red Sox game.
John Williams has demonstrated extreme flexibility and talent whether composing for events, celebrations, or films. He has graced us with his music for over six decades, and he continues to entertain. At the recent Academy Awards, he received two nominations for Best Original Score. Though he did not win, being nominated twice is a clear indication of how his ability to embellish films with his music has continued to endure.