*
banner

Fly me to the Moon...

Drew Fennell's exciting composition inspired by the epic journey of Apollo 11 has been published by Cantatio Music.

Buzz Aldrin
  The music is inspired by the iconic journey to the Moon by Apollo 11

Cantatio Publishing has announced that they are to publish a fantastic new work from the pen of composer Drew Fennell.

'Apollo 11' is inspired by the iconic journey taken by the American astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins in July 1969 to become the first men to step foot on the Moon.

Spirit and drama

The work was performed to critical acclaim at the 2017 RNCM Brass Band Festival by James Gourlay and the RNCM Brass Band, with Jim saying at the time: "Drew's composition is an exciting work, suitable for bands in the Second Section upwards, and which perfectly captures the spirit and drama of the 1969 Moon landing.

It's melodic and descriptive, which makes it ideal for concert use and the inclusion of short recordings of the voices of President Kennedy and Neil Armstrong to be played before and during the piece, really enhances the audience experience."

Passion

On being able to publish the work, Mark Quinn of Cantatio told 4BR: "Making exciting original works and new high quality arrangements is a passion for us at Cantatio. Adding this amazing work by Drew to our portfolio is a major coup and we look forward to working with him on future projects."

Drew Fennell has been a member of the River City Brass Band in the USA since 1998.

A 1994 graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, he studied with Anthony Pasquarelli, and after receiving his degree he served as principal trumpet with the Butler, Altoona and Youngstown Symphonies, as well as playing with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

Drew's composition is an exciting work, suitable for bands in the Second Section upwards, and which perfectly captures the spirit and drama of the 1969 Moon landingJames Gourlay

Fine reputation

He has secured a fine reputation as a composer and arranger and has completed well over 100 projects for the River City Brass, a dozen of which appear on various RCB recordings.

He also created arrangements for numerous other groups, such as the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra, the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Concert Chorale.

Find out more


https://www.4barsrest.shop/product/apollo-11-composed-drew-fennell/

www.cantatiopublishing.com

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


RNCM

Research recognition for RNCM

January 8 • The Royal Northern College of Music adds to its established recognition as a leading centre for the advanced study of music performance and composition.


ODBBA

ODBBA confident of capacity turn-out

January 8 • You will need to be quick to make sure you get your entry in for the Oxford & District Brass Band Association Winter Contest.


Geneva Clans

Geneva boost to cross border battle

January 8 • Geneva Instruments has boosted the prize funds for the forthcoming 'Clans vs Counties Contest' in June.


Elland

Elland to lead youth procession to the Minster

January 8 • Eight youth and training bands will provide the musical entertainment at Halifax Minster next month.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


The Marple Band

January 6 • Bb Bass and Tuned Percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly, ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new year.


Derek Renshaw

ABBA Member
Conductor, Band Trainer and Adjudicator.


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd