pyrotechnic magazine issue #3 - february 2015

Issue 3 February 2015

pyrotechnicMAGAZINE

F O R F I R E W O R K C O M P A N I E S & E N T H U S I A S T S A C R O S S T H E W O R L D

Arras Bell TowerFireworksArras is the capital of thePas-De-Calais department,and is well known for itsbeautiful belfry or bell tower,which has been listed as aUNESCO World Heritage Sitesince July 2005.

The Masclet: A Symphony of NoiseToday, Valencia is known for three things: the Paella (a delicious Valencian ricedish), for oranges and forthe beauty of its mascletas.

MAPAGSeptember ShootThe answer was yes. What else can an aspiringpyrotechnic show designersay when hes offered the opportunity to script alarge show using up to 16-inch shells?

GROUPE FPuts the F in Fireworks


E X C L U S I V E

A TRULY HISTORICFIREWORKS DYNASTYAn Interview with Phil Grucci, CEO and CreativeDirector off Grucci Fireworks. Interview by Michael Richards.

+much more

Bastille Day is actually French NationalDay, which France celebrates every year onthe 14th of July. This holiday commemoratesthe beginning of the French Revolution withthe storming of the Bastille, as well as theFte de la Fdration celebrating the unity of the French people.

FEATURE

ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS TO WEAR IS A COATGIVEN TO ME BY PHIL GRUCCI AFTER I WROTESEVERAL ARTICLES ABOUT THEIR INCREDIBLEFIREWORKS DISPLAYS FOR 76 PYROMAGAZINE. I only wear it during special

occasions. In particular, I wear it if I am going to afireworks show of some kind. What is fun about doing

that is sometimes people actually ask me if I am part of the Gruccifamily. I guess I should be; at least an honorary member. Butdont think it is just because of my imaginary Grucci status that Impissed me off at Guinness. Im pissed off at Guinness (the bookpeople, not the beer people) because they have royally screwed upand given Gruccis hard-earned, world record for the LargestFireworks Display to Norway.

Now, I fully understand that world records are meant to bebroken, but there is really no comparison between what Grucciaccomplished last year in Dubai, and what took place thisNovember in Sgne, an obscure little Norwegian town hiddensomewhere in southern Norway. Gruccis was a tightlychoreographed NYE spectacular. His world record took 10months to plan and employed over 200 technicians who workedover 5,000 hours to launch 479,651 fireworks (80,000 shells perminute!) from Dubais central tower and along 60 miles of Dubaiscoastline. These were large, professional shellsone sectioneven using seven 24-inch shells at once! How did this possiblycompare to a small, consumer-grade fireworks show (wherepeople actually sat in lawn chairs) watching 540,382 tiny shellsany of us could buy at any fireworks stand, get shot into the sky assky puke that a pyrotechnic artist would be ashamed of? Howdoes a Norwegian container-and-a-half compare to Gruccis nine40-foot containers? It doesnt. And it is an absolute disgrace thatGuinness somehow considers this a new world record. Honestly,any of you could do the same thing. Just get enough people todonate enough of their sacred fireworks stash (it could be 600,000Roman candles or 600,000 bottle rockets, for all it matters), shootthem all off simultaneously, and voila! A new Guinness WorldRecord! Obviously, there needs to be a radically improvedcriterion for this world record. When something is this poorlydefinedwith no thought given to time, budget, firework size,duration, etc.then the record itself is weak, incomparable andinsignificant.

Judge for yourself, however: Norway (2014): Grucci (2013

Before I get off my pyrotechnic soapbox, though, I do want tomention a new world record that I completely agree withtheGuinness World Record for the "Largest Aerial Firework Shell."This shell was fired at the end of an amazing display October 11,2014 in Saitama, Japan. The shell weighed anincredible 1,014 pounds and was 4 feet incircumference! Wow! You have to see this tobelieve it!

We put together a wonderful 3rd issue for you I think everyonewill approve of. First, we have an in-depth interview with PhilGrucci regarding his companys recent spectacular show inBaltimore for the 200th Anniversary of the Star SpangledBanner. And I promise, I didnt mention the new NorwegianWorld Record even once during the entire interview. Were proudof the variety in this issue, too. As usual, we have wonderfulphotographs and video footage from a wide variety of exoticlocations. We also have some very interesting articles toaccompany each series of pictures. This issue, we travel toIceland to celebrate New Years Eve; and Julien Batard takes us toParis to celebrate Bastille Day. We get an inside look at the MountCarmel Fireworks Factory in Malta, and a thorough explanationabout the current anti-firework movement in the Netherlands.We visit the USA for Pyromania 2014, and the shores of LakeAnnecy in France for La Fte du Lac dAnnecy. PhotographerChistophe Blanc shares his Arras Bell Tower exploits with us. We learn from Howard Pryda and Dave Stoddard just how MAPAGcame into being (the Mid Atlantic Pyrotechnic Arts Guild), and ifthat were not enough, we review PGI 2014 in Mason City, Iowa,and get a great explanation of the masclet from Jose Pallares.

All in all, like I said, this is a great 3rd issue. Feel free to writeus and tell us what you think. Oh, and be sure to write Guinnessand tell them what you think, too. If they dont hear criticism frompeople in the fireworks industry, they wont change their criteria.

Michael RichardsEditor, Pyrotechnic Magazine

EXTRA CONTENT EXTRA CONTENT

Welcome

EXTRA CONTENT

PLEASE BE AWARE that any information you may find in this publication may be dangerous and is some countries depending on their law illegal. Some information within Pyrotechnic Magazine may create a risk for readers who choose to apply or use the information in their own activities.

None of the authors, contributors, administrators or anyone else connected with Pyrotechnic Magazine, in any way whatsoever, can be responsible for your use of the information contained in or linked from this publication.

EDITOR: Michael RichardsART DIRECTOR: Jason MayesADVERTISING: Tony GemminkPUBLISHER: Stichting PyrofanEDITORIAL: Tony Gemmink

If you have an ideas for an article, have anyinteresting fireworks photograph or have written an article that you would like to see in an upcomingissue of our magazine, please [email protected]

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS:Tobias Brev, Robin Harteveld, Jasper Groeneveld,Michael Richards, Tony Gemmink, BertholdSchwarz, Tim Jameson , Christophe Blanc, Nick van der Veen.

ISSUE 3 CONTRIBUTORS:Andrian Zahra, Jos Hulsing, Howard Pryda, Dave Stoddard, Julian Batard, Edward Vasel, Jose Pallares and Jose Manuel Donaire Gil.

CONTACT PYROTECHNIC MAGAZINE:[email protected]

MAILING ADDRESS:Pyrotechnic MagazineTorenmolen 932992DH, BarendrechtThe Netherlands

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2 Magic In The Sky This was another impressive year for the MountCarmel Pyrotechnic team of urrieq. A year youcould say culminated on Saturday, July 26th,when Maltas nighttime skies above urrieq filledwith intensely bright colors and a creativeintermix of innovative pyrotechnic effects...

12 Celebrating NYE in ICELANDIceland, known predominantly for its cold weather(which is not at all accurate), geysers (which isvery accurate), the international artist Bjork, andof course, the Eyjafjallajkull volcanic eruption of2010 (mainly because it briefly disruptedEuropean air travel)...

18 Pyromania 2014 Ive been attending Pyromania (formerly knownas the Pyro U St. Louis Shoot) every year since2009. This gatheringwhich continues to growbigger every year...

22 Arras Bell Tower FireworksArras is the capital of the Pas-De-Calaisdepartment (located 180 km north of Paris), andis well known for its beautiful belfry or bell tower,which has been listed as a UNESCO WorldHeritage Site since July 2005...

30 Fallas 2015, the month of MarchSee the complete Fallas 2015 PyrotechnicProgramme...

32 The Masclet: A Symphony of NoiseToday, Valencia is known for three things: thePaella (a delicious Valencian rice dish), fororanges and for the beauty of its mascletas...

38 Groupe F Puts the F in FireworksBastille Day is actually French National Day,which France celebrates every year on the 14th ofJuly. This holiday commemorates the beginningof the French Revolution with the storming of theBastille, as well as the Fte de la Fdrationcelebrating the unity of the French people...

44 Grucci: A Truly HistoricFireworks DynastyNow that Ive reached an age when I can begin tolook back and marvel at some of the events Ivepersonally witnessed or watched on television,Ive begun to make a mental list of the things thathave truly astonished me during my lifetime...

62 Illegal Fireworks now threatenLegal fireworks in The Netherlands The Dutch really love fireworksinsanely lovefireworks. Maybe thats an understatement, but itis definitely factual nonetheless, and rarely statedas a simple sentence out loud...

64 PGI 2014: Mason City Iowa, USA In 2014, the Pyrotechincs Guild International (PGI)returned to the heartland of America in MasonCity, Iowa for its annual gathering of over 3,000members...

68 The Concept that Became MAPAG I have always loved fireworks. My first experiencewith them was back in 1960, in Sarasota, Florida,when I was six years old...

74 MAPAG September ShootThe answer was yes. What else can an aspiringpyrotechnic show designer say when hes offeredthe opportunity to script a large show using up to16-inch shells? ...

84 La Fte du Lac dAnnecyLa Fte du Lac dAnnecy (which translates tomean The Lake Annecy Festival) is heldannually on the shore of Lake Annecy, France.Lake Annecy is located approximately 50 kmdirectly south of Geneva, Switzerland and hasbecome a standard stop for us on our annualsummer road trip. This beautiful citys ambiance,the people there and the amazing shows we haveseen have made this wonderful French locationunforgettable from the beginning...

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FEATURE | Magic In The Sky - Malta

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- The PyromusicalM O U N T C A R M E L F I R E W O R K S F A C T O R Y , U R R I E Q M A LT A

MAGIC IN THE SKY


ACTUALLY, JULY 26TH WAS A GENUINE NIGHT OFFIRSTS FOR THE COMPANY. THIS BECAUSE FORTHE VERY FIRST TIME, ALL OF THE STARS USED INTHE DISPLAY SHELLS WERE MADE OF ACOMBINATION OF MAGNALIUM*, PHENOLICRESIN** AND WERE PVB-BOUND***. This newprocessing technique was based entirely on formulasdeveloped by Mount Carmels lead factorypyrotechnician during the last five years. Whereasstars of this sort are not really new to the creation ofhigh-end professional fireworks, it was the first timestars like these had been formulated in this way foruse in classic Maltese cylindrical shells. Fortunately,the night they were fired, a moderate southeasterlybreeze kept smoke interference to a bare minimum,and the true intensity of these phenomenal colorscreated using this technique were easily visible.

urrieqs Angelo Caruana took some wonderfulphotographs accurately capturing these newlycreated colorful stars. Notice how exquisite thegreens are, as well as the reds, yellows, blues, limecolors, purples, oranges, whites and silver.

Written by Adrian ZahraPhotography by Angelo CaruanaThis was another impressive year forthe Mount Carmel Pyrotechnic team ofurrieq. A year you could sayculminated on Saturday, July 26th,when Maltas nighttime skies aboveurrieq filled with intensely brightcolors and a creative intermix ofinnovative pyrotechnic effects.

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- The Pyromusical

M O U N T C A R M E L F I R E W O R K S F A C T O R Y , U R R I E Q M A L T A

MAGIC IN THE SKY

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Inadvertently, this processing technique has givenrise to perhaps the finest multi-petal 8-inch coloredshells created in Malta all summer.

Photo #1: This photograph clearly shows a two-petal, three-sector, 8-inch shell using blue, greenand red. Such multicolored sectored shells are anexcellent example of Maltese shell artistry. Theirprecisionespecially as they relate to the starsthemselvesmust be perfect. The different colors,compositions and mass must have the same burningrates and travel at the same speed in order tomaintain shell symmetry. In this particular photo, theformulation of precisely matched burning rates isclearly visible.

Photos #2, #3 and #4: Here is further proof of the unrivalled luminosity and color intensity ofpyrotechnic stars when they are created using thismetal and resin-filled formula. The total absence of water during their production allows the use ofmetal fuels in their purest state without the need for passivation (passivation involves a shielding outer-layer of base material, which can then be applied as amicro coating) in a safe environment without fear ofany unwanted reactions. Such water/metal reactionsare generally of great concern to every for the safety of everypyrotechnician, and it is equally critical to the qualityof each color and the shelf life of the stars andensuing pyrotechnic artifacts.

It was a big year for pyrotechnic choreography aswell, with the introduction of a wonderfully uniquenovelty in the form of two Hanabi towers. These

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two, 98-foot tall structures (lighted at their base andeasily discernable in photo #5 showing them as theystand straight up, situated 100 meters apart at bothends of the firing field) can then be used to showcasean unprecedented number of intricate effects set tomusic. In this case, over 1200 single shotsshot injust three minutes at various angles andconfigurationswere fired to the music of the Can-Can. The splendor, intensity and intricacy of usingthese two towers to launch choreographed fireworksdisplays is destined to create endless possibilities forthe art of pyrotechnics on the islands. These towersregularly feature carbon tail comets, strobe matrixcomets, metal-fuelled colored comets as well asflash pots and mines.

Photo #6: This photograph shows how easy it isto use just one effectfired from the towers usingred and silver comets intersecting in a patternreminiscent of the X-Factor Logoto createsomething wonderfully beautiful and symmetrical.

Photo #7: Shows an effect using carbon tailcomets creating a pattern similar to that of the wingsof an angel.

Photo #8: Yet another effect created usinglampblack comets and magnalium green mines firedfrom the Hanabi towers.

Photo #9: The best part of using the Hanabitowers while creating displays is that it opens up aninfinite number of pyrotechnic possibilities. Here thechoreographer blends two incredible effectssimultaneously: 3-inch tiger tail comet fans are firedfrom the ground, while a massive double petal, 12-inch shell is set off at the same time.

Photo #10: This photograph shows how effectivethe finale can be using the Hanabi towers. Here, two360-degree fans were situated on top of the towersand fired along with a multitude of purple to greenspherical strobe shells. Youcan view the Tower display inits entirety using thefollowing link:

In addition to the unique tower displays,spectators who viewed this show were treated to over20 minutes of pyrotechnic magic as a multitude ofprime quality shells and ground effects were fired, allof them perfectly choreographed to the Music byJohn Miles, Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen, Let itGo from Disneys Frozen and a finale using largecaliber shells set to the tune of Aviciis Wake Me Up.

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Photo #11: is a great example of one of theground effects fired in a display using green strobematrix comets and blue to red color-changing mines.Pattern shells also play a prominent role in alldisplays by the Mount Carmel Fireworks Factory, andphoto #12 is a good example of that.

Photo #13: These are tourbillion shells(serpantelli in Maltese), essentially small gerbsloaded into a canister shells. The ones shown hereare 5-inch shells.

Photos #14 and #15: Aerial and ground effectscome together in perfect pyrotechnic unison usingmulticolored cylindrical shells and metal charcoalstar canister shells (Sfejjer) with multicolored ground effects.

So, after 20+ astounding minutes of pyrotechnicmagic, Magic In the Sky came to its colorfulconclusion. It is hard to believe that a years worth ofhard work by a team of Mount Carmel FireworksFactory volunteers can be over so quickly. Such is thelife of a pyrotechnic artist, I guess, and as always, nextyears show will be even better.

*Magnalium is an aluminium alloy made withmagnesium and small amounts of copper, nickel,and tin.

**Phenolic resins are most often used in theproduction circuit boards.

*** PVB is actually Polyvinyl butyral and is a resin usually used for applications that require strong binding, optical clarity or adhesion to different surfaces. It is known for its toughnessand flexibility.

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For those who would like to watch any of the displays described in this article, you can view them using the following links:

Mount Carmel Fireworks Factory, Zurrieq, Malta, Pyromusical 2014 - Let It Go - Frozen LINK

Mount Carmel Fireworks Factory, Zurrieq, Malta, Magic In The Sky, Hanabi Towers 2014 LINK

Mount Carmel Fireworks Factory, Zurrieq, Malta, Pyromusical 2014 - Avicii-Wake Me Up (Tomorrowland) LINK

links

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FEATURE | Celebrating New Years Eve in ICELAND

ICELANDIC FIREWORKS came to myattention several years ago when I receiveda New Years Day text message from aclose friend of mine: Last night wasincredible! The sky was so full of fireworks Ididn't know where to look! I think I havefound paradise. Happy New Year!

What was ironic about his messagewas that my friend ordinarily couldnt careless about fireworks. He just happened tobe traveling in Iceland on New Years Eveand saw something incredible that he liked.To receive a message like this from him,though, made me want to investigatefurther just what he saw, and afterwatching several online videos of IcelandsNew Years Eve celebratory fireworksshows, I came to fully understand his text.Wow! Impressive! Video is one thing,however, seeing spectacular fireworks likethis firsthand is something quite different.

That is when I made a conscious, life-altering resolutiona bucket list kind ofdecisionto visit Iceland myself to see all ofthis live.

Fortunately, my girlfriend and I had justbeen talking about going on vacationtogether during the wintertime, and a NewYears trip sounded great to her. I wasexceptionally persuasive about Iceland, andgently cajoled her with promises ofromantic dinners for two in cozy littleIcelandic restaurants filled with localdelicacies cooked just for the two of us(unfortunately, our only delicacy on thistrip turned on to be Hkarlan Icelandicdish made of fermented shark meat thatreeks of ammonia and is an acquiredtaste which means only Icelanders like itafter their taste buds have died). My finalconvincing argument (which also turnedout to be a bust) was the promise of seeing

the Northern Lights firsthand (which wenever saw because it was cloudy almostevery night we were there).

Failed promises aside, after a three-hour flight from England, my girlfriend and Iwere picked up on schedule at the airportjust outside Reykjavik. After sufferingthrough a host of sales pitches and otherstandard tourist nonsense, we finallymentioned our desire to see fireworks.According to our driver, the people inIceland are THE craziest fireworksenthusiasts in the entire world, and weshould prepare ourselves for some of thebest fireworks weve ever seen. THAT'Swhat I wanted to hear! THAT is why I camehere in the first place! And just the prospectof seeing great fireworks displays on NewYears Eve kept me excited for days!(Remember: mostly cloudy days, full offermented shark meat).

Written By Jos HulsingIceland, known predominantly for its cold weather (which is not at allaccurate), geysers (which is very accurate), the international artist Bjork, andof course, the Eyjafjallajkull volcanic eruption of 2010 (mainly because itbriefly disrupted European air travel). But did you know that the Icelandicpeople harbor an unrivaled love of fireworks that can cause them to literallygo pyro-insane on New Years Eve? Er a? J!*

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ICELAND

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Meanwhile, I learned that fireworks inIceland are called FLUGELDAR, and aregenerally sold by sports clubs or by theIcelandic Mountain Rescuers (ICESAR). Inthe evenings just prior to New Years Eve,consumer fireworks are sold directly fromshipping containers turned into little shopsplaced in parking lots outside shoppingmalls. Some are also sold alongside theroadways as well. Almost every night, anhour before they close, many of these shopsshoot some of their inventory into the sky toattract more customers. Watching themfrom my hotel window definitely whet myfireworks appetite as I watched intermitexplosions light up portions of the Icelandic night.

Being a bona fide Dutchie I couldn'tallow New Years Eve to pass without settingoff at least some fireworks myself.Procuring them, however, proved to besomewhat of a problem. Since I didnt havea car in their country, I had to walk to findone of these roadway shops. Let me beclear about something at this point: they callit ICE land for a reason. And a winter walkin Iceland is every bit as cold as one mightimagine. Despite the gelid walk, just seeingthe fireworks in the makeshift shop warmedmy soul. And what strange names they hadfor their cakes there: Egill, Grettir, Gunnar.

The wrappers read like a chapter out ofLord of the Rings. Regardless, there wereall kinds of fireworks behind the counter inall shapes and sizes. Unlike other

customers perusing the shelves, it took memore than an hour to make the difficultchoices of what to buy. I wound up buying afew oddly styled cakes and a large fountain.Now that my purchase was complete I hada new problem: how would I get all of thisback to the hotel room? Luckily, the manwho sold me my fireworks noticed mydilemma and offered me a ride back to thehotel when he closed.

December 31st finally arrived. In theNetherlands it is the day when fireworksaficionados begin shooting off firecrackermadly at precisely 10 o'clock in the morning.Here in Iceland, though, nothing out of the

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ordinary happened. It was a quiet,somewhat sunny, cold day and that gave mygirlfriend and I time to explore the city andits nearby surroundings a little more. Localstold us that the best view for the New Yearsfireworks display was up over the city by thewater tower. We wanted to be in the middlethe action, however, so we chose the squarein front of the Hallgrimskirkja (Pilgrimschurch) instead. The Icelandic tradition is to

watch comedy shows on television, andthen come outside at 11:30 PM to startsetting off fireworks.

Because the open space near thechurch where I wanted to set off ourfireworks was way too far to walk carryingall of the different sized fireworks packages,I decided to set them off closer to our hotelinstead. So, around 11:00 PM I placedeverything I had purchased on the ground

outside and began shooting our own privatelittle show. First, I lit the fountain, followedby assorted small cakes, ending our showwith THE JOKER, a 66-shot, 2-inch cake.Is it my imagination, or does the cold wintryair make fireworks appear even morebeautiful? It was already turning out to bethe perfect New Years Eve: I was in Iceland,I just set off some cool fireworks, I was withmy girlfriend, and at last I was breathing inthe sulfurous smell of burning cardboardand gunpowder.

After cleaning up the aftermath of ourlittle show, we walked to the Pilgrimschurch to wait for the evenings festivities tobegin. Even though it was already gettinglate, not much was going on yet. Every nowand then we did see tiny rockets lighting upthe sky here and there, and also heard loudbangs in the distance as more and morepeople began gathering in the square. Thenpromptly at 11:30 PM the whole squarebecame surprisingly crowded with localsand tourists. As if by magic, fireworkssuddenly filled the streets everywhere, andwithin minutes you didn't really know

whether to look up or down or right or leftso many fireworks were going off at once! Itwas absolutely crazy to be in the middle ofthat fireworks Armageddon: rockets,

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colored peonies, whistles and cracklingallsorts of styles and sounds everywhere wereexploding all around us! Best of all, sincethe church is on a hill overlooking much ofthe city, we had a great view of most ofReykjavik and could see the entire skyengulfed in color! Wow!

After about an hour of pyrotechnic bliss,as suddenly as it began, the city wentrelatively silent again. (Except for a few bigspenders who never get enough and havethe need to show off to their friends). As forme, I just needed to sit down and breathe

normally again. I was totally drained. Whatan amazing spectacle we just hadwitnessed. Never before in my life had I everexperienced fireworks of that intensity.Obviously, coming to Iceland to see thisspectacle had been a good decision.

Later that afternoon, I received an NewYears text message from the same friendwho originally told me about Iceland: And?Was I right? You're in Iceland aren't you?Happy new year!

It was March before I answered him:Sorry for the late reply... It took me thismuch time to recover. :)

Video from Youtube:

Video from Jos:

* Er a? Icelandic for No kidding? orReally? J ! means Yes!

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Never before in my lifehad I ever experienced

fireworks of thatintensity. Obviously,

coming to Iceland to seethis spectacle had been

a good decision.

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FEATURE | Pyromania 2014

WHILE SATURDAY NIGHT IS WHEN THEMAIN DISPLAYS ARE ALL FIRED,PYROMANIA IS MORE THAN JUST A ONEDAY EVENT FOR THE FIREWORKSENTHUSIASTS WHO ATTEND. A Meet andgreet social venue (which may be myfavorite part of Pyromania) is held for the150+ hobbyists and professionals who beginfiling in Thursday evening. This is awonderful time to meet other pyrofanatics from all over the country, and thissocial get-together typically lasts until thewee hours of the morning. This yearssocial hour brought sad news, however, aswe learned that one of the Pro Am

competitors, Ty Hanke and his wife, had losttheir unborn child that morning and wouldnot be able to compete. Ty is one of themost respected members of ourpyrotechnic community and it deeplysaddened everyone to hear the news. In ourcommunity, though, bad news can oftenspawn great things. Almost immediately, agroup of Tys fellow members stepped up tothe plate to ensure Tys show would be shotfor him while he mourned his loss alongwith his family. What began as a sadmoment for all of us quickly turned intosomething positive as others quickly joinedin to volunteer to help with the setup. Since

all of the equipment required was still withTy, equipment loans were quickly securedfrom other shooters. In a relatively shortperiod of time, every aspect of Tys showwas covered, proving once again just howspecial this event is and how exceptionalthe people are who attend.

Fridays are unusually special days atthe Pyromania shoot. It is a day for goodfood, spectacular fireworks at night, and aslightly different kind of fireworkscompetition specifically designed forhobbyist attendees (It is important to notethat Friday nights competition is not opento the public). This year, Friday night began

Written By Tim JamesonPhotography by Mary ZastrowIve been attending Pyromania (formerly known as the Pyro U St. Louis Shoot) every year since2009. This gatheringwhich continues to grow bigger every yearis now one of the largestpyrotechnic events in the United States. MoPyro (Missouri Pyrotechnics Association: www.mopyro.us)hosts this annual event, but the underlying foundation originated within the Pyro Universe community(www.pyrouniverse.com). Starting back in 2006, Pyromania began as most other U.S. pyrotechnicevents have begun, with a small group of fireworks enthusiasts getting together to showcase theirtalents. Word quickly spread about the professional quality of this shoot, and how everyone whoattended the event saw great displays and had a wonderful time. Nine short years later, the event now has a huge following and has moved to a larger staging areaBrookdale Farms. The eventcoordinatorswho genuinely put their heart and soul into this event and are a big reason for theevents success are Ed Vasel, Scott Fleer, Brian Thiemann and Kevin Kemper.

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FEATURE | Pyromania 2014

with the demo portion of the event. Ninedifferent vendors attended to show off theirhottest products to the entire group. Thefollowing vendors provided demos this year:Bada Boom FireworksBlack Cat FireworksBlack Market FireworksDominator FireworksHales FireworksMost Wanted FireworksPeak Performance FireworksRed Rhino FireworksRKM FireworksSpirit of 76Winda Fireworks

Immediately following the demos, theBlind Pyro competition took place. TheBlind Pyro competition is an interestingevent, really. At 3:00 PM Friday afternoon,teams are given a pre-determined amountof product to produce a display. None of theteams know what product they have untilthat time, and then they only have fourhours to choreograph and setup an entirepyromusical. Given the short amount oftime in which they have to produce theirdisplay, it is amazing the quality of showsthe Blind Pyro competition produces. This years first place winner: MissouriMortar Maniacs.

Saturday nightarguably the mostexciting night and the culmination ofPyromaniatypically hosts ten individualdisplays as well as the Pro Amcompetition. Pro Am began back in 2012and showcases only 1.4G products (no 1.3G professional products are allowed).Each Pro Am display generally lastsbetween six and ten minutes and is limited by shot counts.

This is designed to make thecompetition more even across the board,and guarantees no one can buy achampionship. Additionally, theselimitations bring a uniqueness to this eventother competitions dont have. Sincechoreographers have strict limitations on

the number of 500 gram cakes, 200 gramcakes, singles shots, etc., they can use, theymust shrewdly decide how to bestmaximize the effects per category becausethey cannot rely on sheer numbers. Havingcompeted in Pro Am myself two years ago, Ican assure you that Pro Am definitely teststhe mettle of an artists creativity as well ashis teams setup efficiency. Prep work foreach display is done on Thursday, but theentire display must be set up on the fieldthe day of the competition itselfall whilesharing the field with at least eight to tenother competitors!

This years Pan Am competitors werePeter Rogoz, Ty Hanke, and Chris Walls.Each showed a great deal of creativeindividuality in producing their outstandingdisplays. Peters display, entitled simplyBob, took first prize, but as you mightexpect, the real winners were thespectators. Outstanding displays are alwaysa real treat and these were absolutelyphenomenalespecially since they werecreated using only 1.4G consumer grade fireworks.

In addition to the winner of the Pro Amcompetition, the judges also choose a Bestof Show award to be handed out for themost outstanding display not part of the ProAm competition. This years winningdisplay was produced by KCAP (Kansas CityArea Pyros) and entitled KCAP Goes ToThe Movies. The KCAP group createdexquisitely tight choreography perfectlycombined and timed to wonderful moviescores. Another excellent display that nightworth mentioning was the MoPyro fireworkaccompaniment to the National Anthem.Also, Ryan and Heidi Sheppards traditionstyle Anniversary Display (Ryan and Heidispent their honeymoon together five yearsago at a Pyromania event) was great, plusan outstanding pyromusical displayproduced by Cassabellas Firework, andFireballs by Bill Corbett and crew (Billmakes possibly the best fireballs in the U.S.in my opinion). I also loved the Mass

Launch display with all the scramblingcomets fired by David Vannover, and thenights thunderous finale by Team Xtreme(Bill Collins and crew) that Im suregenerated a large number of noisecomplaints from surrounding towns. Oh yeah, and lets not forget the 10-inch and 12-inch shells being fired as teasersin between all of the displays themselves.How many events have you ever attendedthat shoot 10 and 12-inch shells as filler?

Next year marks the 10th Anniversaryof Pyromania and it will held Sept 17th-19th again at Brookdale Farms. Partof the 2015 event will showcase theChampion of Champions of Pro Amcompetition where previous Pro Amwinners will compete against one another.This alone is reason enough to put thisevent on your must see calendar for 2015.For more information on thenext Pyromania, be sure tovisit www.pyromaniaevent.comor find them on Facebook.

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FEATURE | Arras Bell Tower Fireworks

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ARRAS BELL TOWERFIREWORKSWritten By Christophe BlancArras is the capital of the Pas-De-Calais department (located 180 km north of Paris), and is well known for itsbeautiful belfry or bell tower, which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 2005. >


This great historical honor was celebrated bystaging a huge firework show that surrounded thebell tower and bathed its buildings in colored lights.Designed by David Proteau from Lacroix Ruggieri,the display proved to be hugely popular witheveryone, so popular, in fact, that now each yearduring the first week in September, Arras belltower fireworks entertains roughly 100,000spectators.

The belfry is located at approximately the centerof Arras, just off a large cobblestone square ripe withsmall shop and restaurants. French architecture isat its best in this quaint little town of 43,000 people.Spectators stand on the cobblestones and quickly fillup every inch of available space (so it is not easy tosetup a tripod to take pictures!), and the huge crowdalso makes it difficult to relocate yourself to get thebest perspective for your pictures. I was luckyenough to be offered access to several balconieslocated on surrounding houses (bless these kindpeople) to take my photographs, or I never wouldhave gotten some of these shots.

Most amazing to me, however, was when Imanaged to get up on the church roof facing the

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belfry. It was an amazing point of view, but difficultbecause it wasnt flat and it wasnt easy to reach.Any of you that have tried to climb on a roof with atripod and camera bag will know what I mean.

After taking time to explore several differentpossible angles for my shots, I settled for aperspective very near to where the fireworks werebeing setup at the foot of the belfry itself. I thinkphotographing from several different locationsalways make photographs more interesting. You cantell that from my shots of this showespecially thepictures taken up high on the church roof. Can youtell which one? Here is a clue: it is the photo with thehighest point of view.

Until 2009, I was using negative film (a NikonF100 and Mamiya 7 II), but since 2011, like so manyof you, I have switched entirely to digital cameras. Mycurrent favorite: my Nikon D800.

Arras is the kind of firework event I truly love themost: a combination of a beautiful location, amonument in the background and a professionalpyrotechnic display that thoroughly lights up thebuildings and sky.

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Unfortunately, since I photographed the showyou see here, French regulations have tightened up agreat deal, so fewer fireworks sequences areallowed. Now it is more of a multimedia show thanpurely pyrotechnic. Thats a real shame. The eventwas perfect as it was. Regardless, I cant wait forSeptember 2015! Look for me on a rooftopsomewhere.

Keep in touch on my blog or on Facebook.

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n FEATURE | Fallas 2015

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Valencian MarchMarch, the month of MarchEven the name brings me happinessLaughter and Heebie-Jeebies shiver my bodyNothing but funI want to shout from the rooftopsI want everyone to celebrate our festivalTo know St. JosephEven my name, Jos, is a reflection of our saint

I am ValencianI love that I was born hereOther places dont exist for meImbibing on this cityMy citySince infancy

The FallasThe march of monumentsThe march of MarchFallera Mayors and ninotsExhibitions and ephemeral art

Waiting for March is tortuous,But when March arrivesIt is a time for happinessIt is a time for lifeThis season is the lifeblood of Valencia

A constant rushNonstop merrimentThe city of enchantmentMasclets, castillos and despertspasacalles, monumentos falleros and concursos de paellas

The city implodes with joyHundreds of streets are blockedThe heat of a thousand bulbsHeat up our cheeks

But not to worryThis is the law of the Valencian partyThis is the law of Fallas

Isnt it magic?

Valencian MarchMarch, the month of MarchEven the name brings me happinessLaughter and Heebie-Jeebies shiver my bodyNothing but funI want to shout from the rooftopsI want everyone to celebrate our festivalTo know St. JosephEven my name, Jos, is a reflection of our saint

I am ValencianI love that I was born hereOther places dont exist for meImbibing on this cityMy citySince infancy

The FallasThe march of monumentsThe march of MarchFallera Mayors and ninotsExhibitions and ephemeral art

Waiting for March is tortuous,But when March arrivesIt is a time for happinessIt is a time for lifeThis season is the lifeblood of Valencia

A constant rushNonstop merrimentThe city of enchantmentMasclets, castillos and despertspasacalles, monumentos falleros and concursos de paellas

The city implodes with joyHundreds of streets are blockedThe heat of a thousand bulbsHeat up our cheeks

But not to worryThis is the law of the Valencian partyThis is the law of Fallas

Isnt it magic?

Jose Manuel Donaire Gil www.AmigosPirotecnia.com

Jose Manuel Donaire Gil www.AmigosPirotecnia.com

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DATE TIME DISPLAY WHERE WHO22/02/2015 07.30h Desperta Calle de la Paz Pirotecnia Zarzoso22/02/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Marti22/02/2015 20.00h La Crida Torres de Serranos Pirotecnia Marti28/02/2015 18.00h Mascleta Aerial Paseo Alameda Pirotecnia Valenciana01/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Pearroja01/03/2015 18.00h Mascleta Nocturna Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Pearroja02/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Alpujarrea03/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Alicantina04/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Oscense05/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Angustias06/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Pibierzo07/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Aitana07/03/2015 00.00h Mascleta Nocturna Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Aitana08/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Marti09/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Crespo10/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Gironina11/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Toms12/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Vulcano13/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Hmnos.Ferrandez14/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Elite15/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Zarzoso15/03/2015 00.00h Castillo Paseo Alameda Pirotecnia Europla16/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Europla16/03/2015 01.00h Castillo Paseo Alameda Pirotecnia Hmnos. Caballer17/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Hmnos. Caballer17/03/2015 01.00h Castillo Paseo Alameda Pirotecnia Caballer FX18/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Caballer FX18/03/2015 01.30h Castillo - Nit de Foc Paseo Alameda Pirotecnia Valenciana19/03/2015 14.00h Mascleta Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Valenciana19/03/2015 19.00h Calbagata del Feugo La Porta del Mar Pirotecnia UNKNOWN19/03/2015 23.00h Crema Infantil Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Valenciana19/03/2015 01.00h Crema Mascleta Nocturna Plz. Del Ayuntamient Pirotecnia Valenciana

2015 Fallas Pyrotechnic Programme

FEATURE | The Masclet: A Symphony of Noise

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MASCLET: A SYMPHONY OF NOISE

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THE TRADITIONAL MASCLET IS A SYMPHONY OFEXPLOSIONS THAT COMES FROM A COORDINATEDFIRING OF FIREWORKS. The name masclet isderived from the old masclets which look like littleiron cannons when loaded with gunpowder and e-matched in a symmetrical series all along theground. In Valencia its most common use is inmacletades, which are charges wrapped inmulticolored paper weighing between 2 and 3pounds. These powder-filled mascletades arefastened to the ground using e-match and arrangedin stages: sections fired continuously, producingloud, thunderous explosive sounds. These mascletsare most commonly fired during the daytime (usuallyaround noon) or specifically at the end of a religiouscelebration that requires powerful signification.

From the 1940s to the present, mascletas haveevolved from simply being loud firecrackers fillingthe air with explosive sound, to emotionally laden

(and expertly controlled) sonic percussions designedto have a cadence, rhythm, and an apotheosis andclimax. The mascletada are distinguishedparticularly by their explosive rate the force theirexplosions increase from less to morefrom simplybeing loud low frequency sounds, to an inundation ofpowerfully engulfing sound waves. These shots areproduced manually, but synchronized andmechanized in order to create the turbulentharmony that makes the fireworks evoke suchemotion. Air elements such as exploding rockets,mortar shots with aerial shells, etc., have beenintroduced as part of the masclet over time. Also,other sound effects like sirens and whistles havebeen added as new instruments to this uniquelypercussive symphony.

I have only been an aficionado of the mascletsince the mid 1970s, but after researching thesubject, I believe that the masclet we know today

Written By Jose PallaresToday, Valencia is known for three things: the Paella (a delicious Valencian ricedish), for oranges and for the beauty of its mascletas. That may be anoversimplification of this beautiful city, but these three things certainly add to thefame and charm of Valencia. This article is a brief explanation of the masclet andits symphonic characteristics and similarities. For those who havent experiencedthe power of its emotional frequency, it might be somewhat difficult to understand.I hope this article will help clear up that misunderstanding.

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originated somewhere in the early 1960s. Unlikecommon fireworks, masclet appear to stimulatethe body through rhythmic, somewhat percussivemusical sounds. In fact, the classic structure of themasclet can be thought of as almost symphonic inits structure.

The four movements of a masclet symphonyAs with music, the sound of this unique symphonyrequires somewhat of a prelude prior to theexplosive noise that will follow. First, there is theintroduction. Then the first movement begins toexplodeall occurring after the initial ignition of theValencian fireworks. There is an aerialannouncement (explosive instead of vocal orinstrumental) that seems to announce thatsomething important is about to occur. And themasclet begins building in carefully developedstagesfrom its initially sparse number of chargesto its eventual stentorian brawn.

The aerial effects (although there have beentimes that these are accompanied by small groundeffects like groups of firecrackers, whistles orcolored smoke) usually end with a distinctiveexplosion of some kind to indicate that that particularsection is over.

The second movement is the central part of themasclet. As the ground aspect is developed with itscontrolled explosions (coupled by deliberate delays

within groups), additional mechanized andsequenced explosions create further time delays. Inthis section, though, the so-called Rastros deTruenos (translation: thunder trail) has a veryimportant task: it is the filler for the pulsating rhythmof the production. These smaller explosionsessentially never stop so that the mascletsymphony wont have any silent moments within.During its progression, the various concussions haveto gradually increase in number and in intensity sothat the feeling of an impending crescendo is both

heard and felt. A good masclet occurs during thisstage only if the master pyrotechnician (maestroPirotecnico) has created a series of frighteninglyintense explosions. This is what the art of masclet isall about.

Normally, depending on budget and location, theground section of the masclet is accompanied byaerial effects. The key word here is accompaniment,however; the aerial effects should never hide thespirit and power of the ground explosions.Otherwise, it would be considered a masclet aerea

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(aerial masclet) instead. Without a doubt, the thirdmovement is the part of the masclet that mostspectators like and come to see. It is sometimesreferred to as: The Ground Earthquake. This is thecritical moment; this is what the pirotecnico studyhard to learn and perfect. It is essential that thecontrolled explosions during this section go fromvery intense ground blasts to a development of more powerful thunders in just a few seconds tosimulate the feel of an actual earthquake. It is acarefully planned (secretly meticulous) eventintertwined with e-match and its extensive branches of colorfully wrapped explosives thatincrease in quantity and quality. This is the finalphase; the part that makes the spectators vibrate

and their emotions jump. This is what getsexperienced viewers excited, and first time viewersfrightened. Some describe this part of the mascletas crazy. And that is really what it is. But it is alsoequally exciting

The fourth and final movement of this makeshiftsymphony is called Bombardeo Aereo (air bombing).As these words suggest, the final explosions ofvarying intensity are fired from rockets. The aim is toclose the masclet with a final aerial thunderaproduction that is tight, dry and seamless. This effectis the finale; the climax; the crescendo thatconcludes the masclet.

As I have said, a good masclet shoots fromless to more; ascending its intensity withoutinterruption, and just as suddenly as its intensityheightens, it must abruptly end. This is whatValencian masclet are most famous for; it is an artform rarely matched anywhere else in the world.

Although it has been developed overgenerations, dont think its development hassuddenly stopped. The masclet continues to evolve,and with numerous new devices and shootingsystems, new technology, new digital controlsystems, computers and wireless systemsthemasclet will progress and be perpetually perfected.

In conclusion, I would like to dedicate this article

to all Pirotecnicos Valencianos. Due to their artisticability and wisdom, the Mascleta is known worldwideas a Valencian art form.

I would especially like to commend thepirotecnicos from the town of Godella, where as asmall boy I learned to love the art of pyrotechnicswith the help of my grandfather and my father.

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Unlike common fireworks, mascletappear to stimulate the body through

rhythmic, somewhat percussive musicalsounds. In fact, the classic structure of the

masclet can be thought of as almostsymphonic in its structure.

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FEATURE | Groupe F Puts the F in Fireworks

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FOR THE 2014 CELEBRATION, THE CITY OF PARISCHOSE THE PYROTECHNIC SHOW COMPANYGROUPE F (one of the worlds leadingmanufacturers of pyrotechnic equipment) to createthis 4th of July-like spectacular. This show is amonumental endeavor, especially since the companycontracted to do the work isnt given much time andhas to put together the entire fireworks displaytogether on-site the actual day of the festivities. Tomake matters even more stressful, Groupe F wasonly given full access to the site beginning at 2:00 PMfor a show supposed to start at 11:00 PM that night!Obviously, this immense task takes a great deal ofexpert planning and seamless cooperation from anexceptionally well trained team. The fact that GroupeFs display appeared so effortlessly perfect and wentoff on schedule as planned, was truly a testament totheir expertise.

To produce this pyrotechnic wonder, two firezones were created. The first was located near to thetower at Trocadero and consisted of 6 truckloads oflarge candles and shells. Nearby these trucks, in thesame zone area, were 4 large makeshift sandpitsfilled with additional candles. The second fire zonewas located at the Eiffel Tower itself. Since the Towerwas to be the centerpiece of the display, a truckloadof large-caliber shellssome as big as 8-incheswere installed to fire all around the base. The rest ofthe candles and single shots were then equallydivided and placed on the Towers sides covering allthree floors. Additionally, there were some smallercaliber shells placed on the second floor.

The theme chosen for 2014s French NationalDay was War and Peace (not to be confused withTolstoys novel). This theme was picked preciselybecause 100 years ago to this date, WWI began, and

Written and photographed by Julien BatardBastille Day is actually French National Day, which France celebrates every yearon the 14th of July. This holiday commemorates the beginning of the FrenchRevolution with the storming of the Bastille, as well as the Fte de la Fdrationcelebrating the unity of the French people. This is an annual celebration full ofmilitary parades, colorfully decorated streets and a variety of nationalistic events,ending, of course, with a spectacular pyromusical shot from the Eiffel Tower itself.

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70 years ago, WWII followed. A tentative world peacehas since succeeded these two horrendous events(give or take a few serious conflicts), but peace is stillmankinds ultimate goal. So, regardless of yourhistorical leanings, for 35 minutes on the 14th day ofJuly, the Iron Lady (The French nickname for theEifel Towers is La dame de fer which looselytranslates to mean The iron lady and refers to thewrought iron material she is made of) wears herpyrotechnic crown with pride as three full floors offireworks are fired up, accompanied by over 300searchlights bathing the Tower with the colors of the soldiers uniforms who fought in these wars. In addition, (and these were particularly impressivethis year) 5 large lancework frames spelling out1914 2014 VIVE LA PAIX (long live the peace)were ignited.

Since the goal of Groupe F was to entice emotionfrom the crowd, their first display was cannon loud,successfully mimicking the sounds of the first battlesof WWI. A great number of red shells were used aswell to symbolize the blood that was spilled duringthis awful war. All of their displays were strongly

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connected to historical events and depicted timeperiods surrounding different decades. The roaring20s were portrayed using cascading shells andgeometric shells; the 30s (historically characterizedby economic crisis and depression) were symbolizedby many single shots descending from the top of theTower showcasing its many angles and shapes.

WWII was displayed in a much more dramaticfashion using a host of makeshift flamethrowersplaced all around the Tower below. Then, usingmultiple red and yellow shells to light up thenighttime sky, these flaming colors accompaniedMozarts emotive Requiem Mass in D minor toeffectively recreate the specter of German soldiersmarching into France to begin their occupation.

The finale was simply designed to honor Franceand highlight the return of peace to the world. The

European Unions colors were also displayedeventhough they didnt exist until relatively recentlybyprojecting a beautiful blue sky with its stars onto theTower. Blue and gold single shots enriched thisprojected theme. Unique to this finale, Groupe F used single shots placed at the edges of the tower to recreate the red, white and blue of the French flag.

To underscore the tranquility of returned worldpeace, John Lennons song Imagine was played as the tower was bathed with candles and shells toform a beautiful pyrotechnic rainbow. Lennons song melded into the Ode to Joy from theBeethovens 9th Symphony accompanied by thesymbol of peace: the dove. The show concluded withan abundance of of national colors at the foot of theTower and a sky full of white comets. The momentcreated was truly magical!

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To produce this pyrotechnic wonder, two fire zones were created. The first was located

near to the tower at Trocadero and consistedof 6 truckloads of large candles and shells

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FEATURE | Grucci: A Truly Historic Fireworks Dynasty

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A N I N T E R V I E W W I T H P H I L G R U C C I , C E O A N D C R E AT I V E D I R E CTO R

I N T E R V I E W E R : M I C H A E L R I C H A R D S >

A TRULYHISTORIC

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Now that Ive reached an age when I can begin to look back and marvel at some ofthe events Ive personally witnessed or watched on television, Ive begun to make amental list of the things that have truly astonished me during my lifetime. Ofcourse, watching Neil Armstrong take his first steps on the moon was astounding,but so was using my first calculator, buying my first Mac 512K or living to see thefirst African-American get sworn in as President of the United States (especiallyafter growing up during an era of such overt discrimination). Added to mypersonal list, however, is Fireworks by Grucci (www.grucci.com). How does thatpossibly qualify? Well, on October 1st, 2009, the Chinese celebrated the 60thAnniversary of the Peoples Republic of China. After decades of being almostentirely closed off to the West, China had finally opened its doors to the world andhad begun to truly flourish once again. What astounded me the most about thisevent, much more than the 10,000 troops marching in unison or the 100,000civilian participants who danced and sang that night, was the fact that China hadhired an AmericanPhil Gruccito design and create the massive fireworks showat the end of their anniversary extravaganza. An American! Im still amazed. Butsomehow, this astonishing fact has since been lost to the world amidst thepolitical hype and pageantry that took place there. More unbelievable to me, is thefact that this incredibly important historical footnote is not even mentioned onlinein Wikipedias entry for the 60th anniversary of the Peoples Republic of China.The article only mentions that there were fireworks placed in each of the 56pillars of national unity in Tiananmen Square, and that the fireworks displayed atthe end of the ceremony were reportedly "double the firepower of the 2008Olympics opening ceremony." Here is another fact for you: the incredible fireworksfor the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2008 Olympic games in Beijing werealso designed by Phil Grucci (along with his close friends and fellow artists, CaiGuo-Qiang, and Jennifer Wen Ma). Am I the only person who understands how

incredible it is that Chinathe birthplace of fireworks and vocally anti-Americanfor decades (under Mao Zedong)hired an American as the Chief Designer andEngineer to design the fireworks displays for their two most important events sofar this century?Phil Grucci is currently the President/CEO and Creative Director of Fireworks byGrucci, Inc. and President/CEO of their manufacturing company, Pyrotechnique byGrucci, Inc. His familys name has been synonymous with fireworks in the UnitedStates since the early 1900s, and their Grucci Italian fireworks history dates all theway back to the early 1850s. To say Phil Grucci has gunpowder running throughhis veins is an understatement, but it is probably more apropos to point out thatthe Grucci family is currently in its 6thgeneration of fireworks ancestral evolution.Today, Grucci fireworks is a high tech operation with two main facets: the first isFireworks by Grucci that creates its phenomenal shows and displays; thesecond is Pyrotechnique by Grucci which manufactures military and commercialpyrotechnics and explosives and has an extensive research and developmentsection devoted entirely to developing new, state-of-the-art creations as well asimproving the ecological soundness of its designs.The list of Grucci accomplishments is long and robust. From producing thepyrotechnic displays for seven consecutive U.S. Presidential Inaugurations, to anincredible display off Lower Manhattan for the Centennial of the Statue of Liberty,to their jaw-dropping fireworks displays during the opening and closingceremonies of the Beijing Olympics (2008), as well as their signature pyrotechnicproductions for previous Olympic Games in Lake Placid (1980), in Los Angeles(1984) and Salt Lake City (2002) the Grucci family has truly left an indelible markin the worlds collective understanding of what a professional fireworks shouldalways look like. Because Fireworks by Grucci continually awes everyone, we nowexpect to be regularly awed by every fireworks show we see. In fact, bigger and

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A N I N T E R V I E W W I T H P H I L G R U C C I , C E O A N D C R E AT I V E D I R E C TO R

I N T E R V I E W E R : M I C H A E L R I C H A R D S

A TRULYHISTORIC

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better, incredible, phenomenal, spectacular, amazing and stunning, etc., are allworn out adjectives used to describe the Grucci familys pyrotechnic expertise andtheir creative use of fireworks.On New Years Eve in 2013, within Dubais central city and spread out along 60 miles of its extensive coastline, Fireworks by Grucci shot 479,651fireworks to put them firmlyand indisputablyinto the Guinness Book ofWorld Records for completing the Largest Fireworks Display ever fired. Althoughthe Norwegian nonsense shot in 2014 appears to have temporarily upset thatrecord, I personally believe Guinness original particularization of Gruccis originalrecord will prevail.To add to their seemingly exponential list of accomplishments, Fireworks byGrucci was hired this year to create a very special display commemorating the200th anniversary of Americas national anthem written by Francis Scott Key.Gruccis fireworks were to be part of the finale of a large number of festivals and

events scheduled to stretch from Baltimore to the historic waterfront communitiesalong the Chesapeake Bay (all of which played significant roles during thesuccessful American defense of 1814), and to honor the song, The Star SpangledBanner, considered to be pivotal in helping define our national identity.On September 13, 2014, the Grucci pyrotechnical highlight of Baltimores week-long Star Spangled Spectacular to commemorate the 200th anniversary ofFrancis Scott Keys Star Spangled Banner began. The show was destined to befar different than other Grucci displays because Pyrotechnique by Grucci hadcompleted development of an entirely new technology called PixelBurst. Thiscreative new technique essentially used the sky as a pixelated screen, and Grucciawed the crowd by setting yet another Guinness WorldRecord for The Largest Pyrotechnic Image ever recorded,by filling up the sky with a 600 foot by 900 foot wide AmericanOld Glory over Fort McHenry.


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Of course, the flag display was fired just as the Star Spangled Banner was beingsung, and the sounds and the colors poetically mimicked the historical sounds ofwar with bombs bursting in air that had inspired Francis Scott Key to write theoriginal lyrics.

Performance Facts for the Star Spangled Banner display: Number of days to install: 9 Number of pyrotechnicians: 40 Largest firing mortar: 8-inch Number of hours to choreograph: 38 hours Number of man-hours to install: 4,320 Number of firing cues: 12,800

The Music chosen for Baltimore: Fanfare: Celebrate Discovery John Williams Spirit of America Spirit of America Ensemble Star Spangled Banner Opening performed by Jimi Hendrix America America BeBe Winans Twilights Last Gleaming - performed by Cher Halls of Glory Jon A Kull Spirit Fanfare - Spirit of America Ensemble America the Beautiful Jennifer Hudson & Sandy Hook Childrens Choir Broad Stripes and Bright Stars performed by Military Academies Armed Forces Medley US Marine Band Ramparts Gallantly Streaming performed by Em Hartt Americas Song Faith Hill & Company Rockets Red Glare performed by Faith Hill America the Dream Goes On John Williams Ft James Ingram Our Country John Mellencamp Gave Proof Through the Night performed by NSync Overture of 1812 Tchaikovsky God Bless America Daniel Rodriguez Banner Yet Wave performed by LeAnn Rimes God Bless the USA Beyonc O America Celtic Women And the Home of the Brave performed by Whitney Houston Stars & Stripes - John Philip Sousa

The following interview was conducted by phone on November 23, 2014. It reflectsa conversation between Phil Grucci, Gruccis President and CEO and CreativeDirector, and Michael Richards, the editor of Pyrotechnic Magazine.The fireworks program that Fireworks by Grucci put on in Baltimore was locatedat multiple positions and covered a distance of approximately 2-1/2 miles. It wascomprised of three main segments: a powerful audience-engaging opening; amain performance of multi-level and multi-effect sequences; and a world-renowned Grucci grand finale. The performance was a very American story ofpatriotism, unity and inspiration utilizing Gruccis patented PixelBurst andSkyEtching technologies. Our conversation covers a mixture of Grucci family history, current projects anddetails about the Baltimore production.

PM: Before we start the actual interview, I thought Id give you a few minutes tobrag about your children, Lauren and Christopher. How are these two 6thgeneration Gruccis doing? What are they up to? Phil Grucci: Well, they are doing very well. Im very proud of them. In addition tomy daughter and my son, I should also mention my nephew, Corey, he is alsoworking with us full time. Thats my sisters oldest boy. Actually, hes the oldest ofthe 6th generation of the family because he was born five years earlier thanLauren was. Hes 29 now. Also, Krystal, my younger cousin is part of the familybusiness as well; my nephew Nick and a number of other little nephews andcousins are also coming along the way. Were definitely a family business. Laurenis actually in Cambodia at the moment. She left four weeks ago to go on a seven-week trip through Indonesia, Cambodia, and Thailand. She wanted to dosomething like this while she still has time. Lauren is still working on a free-lancebasis as an aspiring professional photographer and she also works for us part-time as a Pyrotechnician, Photographer and Archivist. She captures a lot of ourphotos and is responsible for most of the recent images youve see on the Grucciwebsite. Christopher is 20 now and is currently a sophomore in college workingtowards an accounting degree. He has been "on location" with our family businesssince he was able to walk. Once he turned 18 and could handle fireworks on hisown, he has participated as a pyrotechnician in a variety of displays: The ROC

100th Anniversary in Taiwan on NYE 2012, Dubai NYE 2013, Atlantis 4th of July,Maldives NYE 2011, etc. He just fired his first solo display last year as one of thelead system operators on the break wall of The World Islands in Dubai. Hecontributes to the equipment testing and warehouse operations when he is not inschool. Some of my proudest memories are seeing Christopher and Laurenengaging with different teams on our sites or within our facilities. My wife, Debbie,and I are blessed with having great children.

PM: Did Lauren get some good pictures of your show in Baltimore?Phil Grucci: Yes, she did. She along with our full-time visual and creative effectsperson, Thomas McKenna manage the capturing of a lot of our photography:Originally, I had Lauren here working full-time doing all the archiving (which iswhat we really set out to do in the beginning), but the shows are coming sofrequently now that it is difficult for us to keep up. Jokingly we keep tellingourselves well get to it during our off-season, but our off-season just neverseems to come.

PM: Fortunately, with all of the Grucci footage appearing online, maybeYouTube can be your makeshift archive?Phil Grucci: (Laughs) Thats right, but what I mean by archiving relates more to allof our old photographs that date from 1929, the 1930s, the 1940s and 1950s, etc.images we currently have filling cardboard boxes and old fashioned scrapbooks inour office, but havent had the time to digitize or catalog. For example, we often getasked for images of our great grandfather, and we have three or four good imagesof him that are originals. Since they arent digitized and efficiently cataloged, wefind ourselves continuously scanning the originals to send out. All of this takestime that wouldnt be necessary if we had everything properly archived.

PM: Ive always wondered why you havent put something out like a like Time-Life book about the Grucci family.Phil Grucci: I agree with you, we really should, but there are so many things wewant to do. You envision them, but there is just isnt time. Id love to do a coffeetable book, or a Time-Life book; we have such great photographs of our work, butit is a matter of putting them all together, assembling a team to lay it all out, andthen finding a third party willing to print it for us. Anyone whos ever published abook knows thats a daunting task. Plus, our core revenue source is producingfireworks performances. Books will have to come second, if and when there isactually time.

PM: Although Grucci research and development has come up with someexquisite creations lately, in a sense you are kind of like pyrotechnic magicians.Do you think NOT knowing how everything is done somehow adds to theexcitement?Phil Grucci: Yes. Exactly. When I look at what we do, the performances are alwaysexciting. But the excitement comes mainly from whats behind the scenesviabuilding and designing and engineering, testing and failure. We do quite a lot oftesting at our facility in Virginia, and at the onset of many of my ideas, most of ourinitial experimentation is a failure. But that is why you have a testing facility. TheFlag in Baltimore is a great example of R&D at its best: we fired in excess of 1,500


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shells at our testing facility before we finally got it right. After each firing, werefined the process, rethought our device and procedures, and kept refiningeverything until it worked the way we wanted it to. We only felt pressure tosucceed because September 13th was looming close by. Of course, the way weformulate the shells is really cool, but if we show and tell and you (the generalpublic) know everything about how its all done, like you said, the magic comespartially from not knowing. We may provide some technical information about theshells, but our secretsthe most colorful parts of what we doguard the magicbehind what we do.

PM: Well, the flag was truly spectacular, and well talk about that more in aminute. I just wanted to mention I got an email from Tony Gemmink thismorning (hes the publisher of Pyrotechnic Magazine) and weve both beenwatching videos of your show in Baltimore to properly prepare interviewquestions. Anyway, he wrote me this morningand you have to understandhes Dutchand told me that after he watched a video of your performance itgave him chicken skin. He meant goose bumps, but I think I like the Dutchversion better.Phil Grucci: (Laughs) Ive heard that chicken skin statement before. But that isvery complimentary just the same. To hear heartfelt compliments like that makesall of our hard work worthwhile. You know, there are a great many financialaspects to the fireworks business, and sometimes it goes counter to the bucketlist I have on my iPhone. This wasnt the case in Baltimore. When that RFP camein, well, it has always been a dream of mine to display a large American flag. Wejust never had the event or the budget to support the R&D necessary to createsomething that massive. Then this project came along it was just a natural for us, and the beauty of it dovetailed off of our experiences in Dubai at just the right time. We were coming backfrom Dubai on cloud 9 after our world record, and the momentum was there and Ialong with my team created an elaborate proposal for the 200th anniversarycommittee that included a render of my PixelBurst flag idea. Once they selectedus, it was like, okay, now its time to turn our render into reality. Our goal was tomake certain the demonstrated effect we proposed looked very close in scale andcontent to the original render. So, it was all hands on deck at the plant, and Ive gotto say, I have a dynamite team (excuse the pun) there at our Virginia facility led bytwo powerhouse women, Brenda Albano and Kelly Frazier. Honestly, we havepyrotechnicians and senior pyrotechniciansall very devoted to what they do.They might be outside shooting or testing at 11:00 at night or midnight, out in the

rain, out in the snowall because we have such a tight timeline we have to follow,and if everything doesnt work perfectly, we have to immediately figure out whatwent wrong. Anyway, they dove right in to perfecting this flag project immediately,and when we finally set it off in the harbor during the show, I got chicken skinmyself. I mean, many of our family and friends as well as our production teamwere at our Show Control up on the roof of this elevated building in Baltimorewhere we could see the entire harbor and the expanse of the river all away downto Fort McHenry; we positioned all of our control gear so we would be lookingstraight at Fort McHenry where the flag would be fired, and the gigantic USAwould be fired and our other SkyEtching effects would be happening. Then thefirst flag went off (you see, we were only contracted to produce one flag, butbecause we were going for another Guinness World Record, and also because ofthe importance of the moment, I felt, were this far into it, lets make two flags astwo made more sense), so instead of once, we fired it twice: once at the beginningof the program (to avoid the potential of too much smoke and to make sure we gota good photo of it) and then again at the end of the program. After the first flagwent off, we all had chicken skin. It was the perfect combination that night forevery face of the event: first, Fort McHenry was the perfect stage; second, it wasthe 200th anniversary of the Star Spangled Banner and we had just createdsomething large, colorful and wonderfully symbolic. Add to that all the excitedradio chatter we heard from our pyrotechnicians, and the crowds heightenednoise we heard after the fireworks displaysit was a very rewarding experience foreveryone involved.

PM: I have to admit, I watched the video of your PixelBurst American Flagabout a dozen times, and it really was an incredible feat. Phil Grucci: Well, thank you.

PM: I notice you have a really brutal schedule. Tonight you have a holiday showat Sax 5th Avenue in downtown Manhattan, then on the 29th youve got a RiverChristmas Boat Parade, and after that, youve scheduled New Year Eves showsin both Las Vegas and Waikiki and four other places. Do you ever rest? Do youever have downtime?Phil Grucci: Unfortunately, I was in the hospital recently for nine days withpneumonia. I guess that was my way of resting.

PM: Thats terrible. Im so sorry to hear that, but I meant vacation time, not ahospital stay. Are you OK now? Phil Grucci: Im not up to full strength yet, but Im getting there. The doctor toldme to go home, stay in the house and not go to the office. I was required to stay inthe house for a week, which I did. Then I was off all last week, so I did get the rest Ineeded. I am very fortunate to have some amazing people working for me. I have agentleman, Joseph Mercante, right now in Saudi Arabia working on an upcomingproject there. He will then go to Dubai for some work we have in the region, andthere is another group in Europe working on our upcoming events. Im veryfortunate to have such a strong, competent teamall very passionate about whatwe do. We also have a really good engineering team here at our offices in NewYork led by my Director of Operations, Chris Carlino. Theyll handle the Sax 5thAvenue show tonight. I have essentially been grounded until New Years Eve, so I

The National Anthemholds a special place in the hearts of allAmericans. Its morethan a song; its part ofour collective dna. Phil Grucci, CEO and Creative Director of Fireworks by Grucci

cant go. That doesnt stop the momentum, however. The list you saw online forNew Years Eve was only half complete. There are other projects that werecurrently contracting to do that I cant speak about yet, but theyre in the works.

PM: I would suggest you go to Waikiki for New Years and let the sun and thesalt air heal your pneumonia.Phil Grucci: (Laughs). Youre probably right. Plans arent complete yet for NewYears Eve, but we are contracted to do a Grand Finale in Waikiki using more than1,800 shells. We have another show to produce around Honolulu in February,which is always a joy after dealing with the harshness of winter in New York. It is avery therapeutic trip for us. I especially love setting up two or three barges withfireworks, and looking out over the beautiful blue water to watch the fish swim by.You can even jump off the barge and go for a swim if you get tired and need abreak. Believe me, you cant do that in East River in New York.

PM: Youre probably glad youre not in Buffalo, New York at the moment. I thinkthey got over 2 feet of lake-effect snowfall yesterday.Phil Grucci: No, we dodged that bullet. Hey, I dont know if you know this, butweve expanded our manufacturing facility with the purchase of a 110-acreResearch and Development facility in Delanson, New York. The facility was anexplosives manufacturing and storage facility previously owned by Arthur RozziPyrotechnics. I also hired Bob Lapietro as Chief Chemist and Research andDevelopment Manager of the Delanson facility. He is a shell builder from the early80s who has been in business as a chemist and has over 30 years of experience inthe Fireworks and Explosives Industry. I hired him to run the Delanson operation,and do our chemical R&D as well as some our mechanical testing out of thatfacility. The idea is to perfect what weve been developing in Delanson (work outany bugs or kinks there) and then send it down to the Virginia facility for massproduction. Speaking of snow, they are getting hammered just outside of Albanyright now. We had discussions about weather in October because it was alreadysnowing there this fall.

PM: Yeah, they got an amazing 80 inches of snow already in Albany. Phil Grucci: I know, but not like Buffalo. Not nearly like Buffalo. I was speaking to my friend Jim Young from Young Explosives, and hes up in the Rochester area. Hes had a few shows scheduled at weekly festivals already canceledbecause of snow. I feel for him, but I asked to please keep that weather up thereaway from us.

PM: I have a great Aunt who lives in Muncie and shes been pretty snowed inherself. Getting back to our questions, though, who was the first person toapproach you about putting together the 200th Anniversary show in BaltimoreHarbor? Did they give you a map to start you out?Phil Grucci: Fireworks by Grucci was selected through an open RFP (Request forProposal) process led by the Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts on behalf ofStar-Spangled 200, Inc. and the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission.The RFP they posted regarding the 200th Anniversary was pretty general, really,and it was basically open to anyone interested. Each of the participants was askedto bring a creative brief with them explaining exactly what they thought was the


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most appropriate way to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Star SpangledBanner. Our response, of course, was to create the worlds largest pyrotechnicAmerican flag. We made a formal presentation (as many other notable displaycompanies did) and illustrated some of the renders and visuals of the flag weenvisioned, as well as showing them the plans for the rest of the performance(which included seven barges up the river, three rooftops as well as downtown).So, you see, it wasnt just the flag idea that won it for us. The idea itself hit a definitebulls eye with the committee right off, and the proposal was chosen because of itssuperior artistic and technical plan. In truth, I think the expansiveness of ourproposal excited the Bicentennial Commission, and the fact that we wanted toconnect the entire river from the harbor to Fort McHenry with a necklace ofbarges. Another thing I liked about having our Baltimore proposal accepted like itwas, was because this was our (the industrys) first major event in the UnitedStates in a long time. We had produced the last seven presidential inaugurals, butPresident Obama didnt want fireworks at his, so that stifled that idea. There reallyhasnt been a major celebration in the U.S. for a while, so this was perfect timingcoming on the heels of our Dubai success. Not to mention it really felt good thatwe were focusing on something really patriotic, which is pretty much thefoundation of our industry.

PM: So, did you officially set the worlds record for the worlds largestpyrotechnic American Flag?Phil Grucci: Yes, we have the Guinness certificate sitting in our office. Officially, itis for creating the Worlds Largest Pyrotechnic Image. You have to use yourimagination a little with this because it had to be made up of a large number ofshells and couldnt be just one 24-inch shell or like a peony.

PM: Was Fort McHenry supposed to be the focal point? Im not that familiarwith the harbor, so Im unclear as to how the set up was determined. Was itmostly in the East Channel? Phil Grucci: Fort McHenry was the place where Francis Scott Key watched thecannons fire while standing on a British ship. There he watched the battle ensuewhile looking at the fort and watching the American Flag continue to wavethroughout the battle. As long as that flag stayed there and waved up on that pole,it meant we were still in the fight and had not surrendered. That was hisinspiration for writing the national anthem, and that was why it was the center ofgravity for the celebration. We displayed our huge American flag as a series ofshell bursts off a 900-foot floating platform right where Key wrote the StarSpangle Banner. Keeping it precisely historical, we discharged the shells in thespace where the ship was located when he watched this battle and wrote downthe lyrics. We displayed all of this on LED screens placed all the way up the riverso the audience could see a remote broadcast of the Fort McHenry fireworksdisplays, whether they were positioned near the fort or up river.

PM: Channel 11 out of Baltimore did a really nice job televising your displays. Phil Grucci: Yes, they did. I thought their camera shots were spectacular and theircuts to the flag were all done at the appropriate times and it was produced verywell. What probably helped them were the meetings I had with them acting in thecapacity of Director to identify the best point of view for each segment of the

performance. We shared storyboards and video animation with them so the knewprecisely when to cut to the correct imagery. It was a little schmaltzy perhaps, butall in all, they did an excellent job.

PM: Thats what live TV is all about.Phil Grucci: If I had to give them a grade it would be an A- for their effort. I wishother stations were as conscientious.

PM: You had an amazing array of patriotic music in this show. Did you pick allthe music or did they tell you specific pieces they wanted you to include? Phil Grucci: We essentially scored the entire production, and the music waspredominantly selected by us, but it is probably fairer to say it was a collaborativeeffort between the anniversary committee and us. Obviously, when it comes tomusic selection there are always personal opinions that come to play. Everyonehas there own personal favorites. In this case it was a little easier since almostevery piece needed to be patriotic in some way. I dont know if you listened to thesound track very closely, but interweaving the lyrics of the national anthem withfireworks throughout the entire performance was our intention. I thought thatwould be better than simply playing the National Anthem at the beginningwhichthey did live that night as a prelude to our performance. So, throughout the entiresound track mixed snippets of the lyrics and match the pyrotechnics to themeaning of those pyrics. For example, just as broad stripes and bright stars wassung, we created heavy red and white stripes coming off of the barges with bluestars above it; and obviously bombs bursting in air and rockets red glare wereproduced dramatically with pyrotechnics as well (even though many othercompanies have done similar things before). I love it that we also included theiconic Jimmy Hendrixs, Star Spangled Banner version and what I believe to bethe best singing of the National Anthem, Whitney Houstons, And the Home of the Brave into the production. I think those pieces added interest and variety tothe mix.

PM: Well, it was certainly beautiful. Ironically, the first three versions of yourshow I watched had no music with it. They were just amateur films posted onYouTube from that night. The Fireworks were beautiful, but it wasnt until Iwatched the Channel 11 version that I could really get the feel and intention ofthe entire show.Phil Grucci: Yes, you really need to see and hear it all to fully understand theexperience.

PM: Because we have a lot of pyrotechnic aficionados who read our magazine, Iwonder if you could explain your new PixelBurst technology to them. Youobviously have advanced this technology and then trademarked it, too?Phil Grucci: Yes, we did. This is a culmination of over 10 years of development andwe continue to refine it to this very day.

PM: So, it was PixelBurst technology that was used to create the large,world-record-breaking pyrotechnic flag, as well as the giant USA and theilluminated dates in the sky? Can you explain to us how it works without givingaway any proprietary information?

Phil Grucci: To simplify it as much as possible, the term PixelBurst waschosen because of the distinctive nature of what the term pixel means. A pixel isessentially a dot, and each of our burstsjust like on a computer screen ortelevisionmake individual dots, only this time it is up in the sky. If you can makeall of the dots explode on cue at specific heights (dependent on their scale andsize) and connect them as part of a precise sequence, then you can create somevery abstract images at a very large scale. The American flag we produced took alittle over 750 PixelBursts to createall exploding at somewhat the same time.Only in this case, they werent set to explode simultaneously because I designedthe sequence of displaying the flag to actually unfurl from the top down

PM: I think I counted 7 waves, but Im not sure. It is hard to tell watching a video.The explosions did a really good job sonically punctuating your flag, though, asit unfurled.Phil Grucci: Actually, there were 13 waves because each wave represented astripe on the American flag. So, there were 13 very precise explosive linesdisplayed up in the sky. I had it programmed and displayed specifically to make itlook like it was unfurling itself from top to bottom.

PM: Is your PixelBurst technology similar to MagicFire, those precisionelectronic initiators? Is that how this all works?Phil Grucci: PixelBurst is the name of the finished aerial shell that has manycomponents making it successful. The microchip in the PixelBurst might sharesome very minor similarities in some ways to MagicFire, but it really represents anentirely new technology and required a completely different type of electricalengineering than the MagicFire chip. We had used the MagicFire chip in the past,


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pyrotechnic magazine issue #3 - february 2015

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