Description
God Rest Ye Fanfare is a vibrant, action-packed reimagining of the English traditional carol God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen. Scored for brass quintet, organ, and timpani, the work transforms the familiar tune through bold contemporary harmonies, vigorous rhythmic energy, and antiphonal interplay between instruments.
While the melody remains recognizable, it appears in inventive new ways—sometimes heroic and declamatory, sometimes driving and intense—creating a fresh sense of drama and momentum. The organ and timpani add grandeur and depth.
Written for the Cairn University Brass Ensemble, God Rest Ye Fanfare received its premiere on December 5, 2025.
Music available from the composer.
Dr. Scott Watson teaches in the School of Music at Cairn University (Langhorne, PA). To investigate how YOU can unlock your musical talents at this Philadelphia-area Christian liberal arts university, please visit: https://cairn.edu/worship-music-ma-on...
#ChristmasCarol #fanfare #BrassQuintet