by Anthony O’Toole (Grade 4+, 2:30)

Fanfare to “The Hammer” was written as a musical tribute to Hank Aaron the legendary baseball player. Hank Aaron’s long career in the sport is full of notable achievements and milestones. While foremost paying tribute to this great slugger and his achievements, overall the piece evokes the imagery and experience of attending a baseball game and playing a game at the playground on a hot summer day or even just playing catch with your father in the backyard. I remember all those things a kid; playing in little league, playing in the street with friends and collecting the cards. Baseball holds a special place in the heart of most Americans. It is more than just a sport; it’s our pastime.
 
Anthony O’Toole