The title Manzanita refers to the flowering shrubs that grow so abundantly in the high desert and mountain regions of Southern California. The composer, John O'Reilly has spent a considerable amount of time in these mountains where he often composes. The opening fanfare and processional of Manzanita was inspired by the beautiful mountains surrounding the San Gorgonio pass near Palm Springs. An enlarged and very prominent percussion section is featured in the exciting Allegro that brings to mind the Native American tribes that were the first inhabitants of this beautiful and exotic region.