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Composer John Williams in a rehearsal session.
BOSTON - In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Fenway Park, Academy award winner John Williams has composed “Fanfare for Fenway,” a special tribute to "America's Most Beloved Ballpark" during its centennial.
The piece, just over three minutes long, was recorded Saturday at Boston's Symphony Hall, and performed by musicians from the Boston Pops Orchestra with Williams conducting.
Williams is a loyal 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 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.
The Boston Pops and the Boston Red Sox have had a storied history of working together in recent years.
In 2009, the Boston Pops Orchestra released "The Red Sox Album," produced in conjunction with the Boston Red Sox and Major League Baseball, on opening day of the Red Sox 2009 season. In celebration of the release, Keith Lockhart and members of the Boston Pops were featured in a performance during the Red Sox opening day festivities.
Williams, Lockhart, and Boston Symphony Music Director Laureate Seiji Ozawa have also had the honor of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at a Red Sox game.
Additionally, various members of the Red Sox, both past and present, have appeared in performances at Symphony Hall including Manager Terry Francona and 1967 Cy Young Award winner Jim Lonborg.