This is a charming one-movement work, in general built in an ABABA scheme with crisp rhythmic "A" sections and a lyrical "B" sections. It was Piston's first work for symphonic band, and it shows knowledge of "Hammersmith," by the English composer Gustav Holst.

The Piston work was commissioned by the League of Composers at the request of Edwin Franko Goldman, conductor of the Goldman Band, which premiered it under Piston's baton on June 16, 1950. Tunbridge Fair is one of the best known annual festivals in New England, held in Tunbridge, Vermont. The "A" sections depict the jostling jollity of the fair, which attracts locals as well as sophisticates from the big cities. The "B" sections have the sound of a reed organ and suggesting a sentimental favorite tune. It has become a favorite in the band repertoire, although its rhythmic and contrapuntal difficulties require a top-notch band.

© Joseph Stevenson, All Music Guide