A cinematic brass library featuring flugelhorns, Wagner tubas, alpenhorns, and low brass ensembles, recorded with multiple mic positions and three performance moods for fantasy scoring.
Purpose and Instrumentation
Hollywood Fantasy Brass reimagines the traditional orchestra for fantasy scores by swapping trumpets for flugelhorns, French horns for Wagner tubas and alpenhorns, and adding a low brass section of trombones, cimbassos, and tuba. Each core instrument is recorded in ensembles of three to deliver a cinematic, larger-than-life sound that solo instruments cannot match.
This collection draws on instruments heard in iconic fantasy soundtracks, aiming to provide the authentic timbres that define the genre. Recorded on the same soundstage as EastWest’s Hollywood Orchestra, it integrates seamlessly with other Hollywood series libraries, ensuring a cohesive sonic palette for composers building virtual orchestral setups.
Performance Moods and Articulations
Every instrument includes three performance moods—Classic, Soft, and Epic—that range from authentic to cinematic. This allows composers to quickly tailor the sound to fit a scene, whether they need a noble fanfare, a gentle melody, or a powerful, epic statement. The moods are designed to be intuitive, letting users switch qualities without complex programming.
The library also features a broad articulation set and true legato for realistic phrasing. A dedicated low brass section provides growling, dark intensity ideal for villainous themes or dramatic moments, adding depth and power that complements the warmer mid-range instruments.
Mic Positions and Mixing Control
Users have individual control over the level and pan of four mic positions: Close, Mid, Main, and Surround. This flexibility allows for precise shaping of the room ambience and stereo image, from tight and intimate to wide and expansive. The custom effect chains and lush ambiences further enhance the cinematic quality.
This level of control is essential for blending the brass with other orchestral elements or for creating a specific spatial feel in a mix. Whether aiming for a dry, close-up sound or a distant, hall-filling presence, the multi-mic setup provides the tools needed to achieve the desired dimension and depth.
Workflow and Practical Applications
For composers, this library simplifies the process of achieving a fantasy orchestral sound. Instead of using generic brass and applying heavy EQ or reverb, they can directly select these period-inspired instruments. The flugelhorns work well for royal fanfares, the alpenhorns for rustic or ceremonial themes, and the Wagner tubas for mysterious or adventurous passages.
It suits film, TV, and game scoring where a majestic or historical atmosphere is required. The low brass can add weight to action cues, while the mellow horns carry lyrical lines. With true legato and multiple moods, it is a versatile tool for both dramatic and subtle orchestrations, from heroic themes to background textures.
Key features
- Ensembles of three for each core instrument
- True legato for realistic phrasing
- Three performance moods: Classic, Soft, Epic
- Four mic positions: Close, Mid, Main, Surround
- Custom effect chains and lush ambiences
- Low brass section with trombones, cimbassos, and tuba
- Recorded on the same soundstage as Hollywood Orchestra
Best for
Ideal for composers scoring fantasy films, games, or TV series who need authentic, cinematic brass sounds like flugelhorns, Wagner tubas, and alpenhorns. It is particularly suited for creating regal fanfares, heroic themes, and dark, powerful low-end textures without resorting to generic orchestral brass samples.