Arthur Bliss’s Six Royal Fanfares were composed in 1960 for the wedding of H.R.H. Princess Margaret on May 6 at Westminster Abbey, capturing the ceremonial grandeur of the occasion through concise brass writing.

Scored for three trumpets, three trombones, optional tuba, and two percussionists, the set comprises six short fanfares that range from stately, ascending proclamations to more lyrical, processional gestures. Bliss employs crisp, homophonic brass textures and occasional percussion flourishes to delineate each fanfare’s character without excess ornamentation.

The complete set lasts approximately six minutes, making it ideal for processional or transitional ceremonial use. Performers must deliver precise articulation and ensemble unity to balance the bright sonorities and sharp dynamic contrasts inherent in Bliss’s fanfare style.