This grand work contains four contrasting movements. The first movement, Prelude, takes the form of an overture: it raises the curtains and marks the beginning of the piece. The brilliant motifs of the opening are contrasted by a calmer and more lyrical central section, after which the triumphant opening returns for the movement’s end. The second movement, Meditation, explores the intimate sounds of the oboe, as well as those of the flute and French horn, backed by a rich orchestral accompanimen...