Bring explosive drama and striking historical resonance to your ensemble's repertoire with Fawkes by Fendall Hill.
Dedicated to Alan Gifford and Sovereign Brass, this compelling work delves into the dark intrigue of November 5, 1605 - the fateful night Guy Fawkes and his conspirators plotted to obliterate the foundation of English royal and political power. While the 36 barrels of gunpowder hidden beneath Parliament never detonated, the looming spectre of what could have been remains one of history’s most lingering images. Had a single fuse been lit, the trajectory of future empires and superpowers would have changed forever.
Rather than commemorating a physical blast, Fawkes celebrates this iconic 'non-explosive event' with breathtaking musical pyrotechnics.
Key Features & Musical Highlights
Dramatic Narrative: Captures the suspense, secret plotting, and shadowy tension leading up to the discovery beneath the House of Lords.
Virtuosic Display: Packed with fiery technical runs, powerful brass fanfare, and rapid artful passagework designed to emulate brilliant fireworks.
Latent Historical Tremors: Features haunting, driving rhythmic motifs that symbolize the sheer kinetic potential of 36 barrels of gunpowder waiting in the dark.
Concert Opener or Finale: An exhilarating showpiece guaranteed to captivate audiences and showcase the dynamic range, power, and precision of your ensemble.
To view a video of the work featuring Wellington Brass please visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fZZzuVrPjg
Duration: Approx. 4–5 minutes (adjust based on score specifics)
Difficulty Level: 2nd Section +
This PDF download includes the full score and parts.
Sheet music available at www.brassband.co.uk (UK) or https://satradecentral.org (USA)
Instrumentation:
Soprano Cornet Eb
Solo Cornet Bb
Repiano Cornet Bb
2nd Cornet Bb
3rd Cornet Bb
Flugel Horn Bb
Solo Horn Eb
1st Horn Eb
2nd Horn Eb
1st Baritone Bb
2nd Baritone Bb
1st Trombone Bb
2nd Trombone Bb
Bass Trombone
Euphonium Bb
Bass Eb
Bass Bb
Timpani
Percussion 1-2