The opening of this unique work features a gentle and serene theme traded between clarinet, oboe and trumpet soloists played over a lush harmonic background. The mood shifts abruptly, however, as the "tirade" begins! A predominant timpani pattern helps propel this section through a series of angular passages, driving rhythmic figures, a jazz-tinged clarinet solo, and ultimately blossoming into a triumphant and glorious conclusion. Dur: 3:30 (Grade 3-1/2)