Fanfare for UC Merced was composed to celebrate the opening of the tenth campus of the renowned University of California System in Merced, California. The work is presented as gift to UC Merced from California State University, Fresno and their band directors, Dr. Lawrence R. Sutherland and Dr. Gary P. Gilroy. On Monday, September 5, 2005, the California State University, Fresno Wind Ensemble served UC Merced on the occasion of their Grand Opening with Dr. Lawrence R. Sutherland conducting. California State University, Fresno is recognized as one of the premiere music schools in California. Dr. Lawrence R. Sutherland has served as the Director of Bands for 37 years and has developed a prestigious ensemble that is recognized throughout the world as one of the finest collegiate wind bands. Dr. Sutherland and the CSU, Fresno Wind Ensemble was proud to be involved in the opening ceremonies of this important new institution of learning.
