When I was a kid, my family spent nearly every Labor Day weekend in Rutland, VT, where my grandparents and several aunts, uncles, and cousins lived. It was the unofficial end of summer; afterwards, we would return to Connecticut and start the new school year. The highlight of Labor Day weekend in Rutland was always the Vermont State Fair, held just a short drive down the street from my grandparents' house. I have vivid memories of walking around the fairgrounds with my family and most exciting of all, sitting in the grandstand and watching the horse races. My grandfather loved betting on the horse races, and it was a tradition that was passed down to the whole family. It was exciting and fun - a true American scene. The fair also included games, rides, animals and all manner of fair food, including the famed french fries at Roxies.
The fair provides the perfect inspiration for a new band piece - a fun overture inspired by the horse racing, games, and atmosphere of the Vermont State Fair.
I am just beginning to sketch out some ideas now - stay tuned!
Image credit: Jack Delano [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons