With its uncomplicated sostenuto opening, Prelude to a Festival initially sets a serene and tranquil mood. The upper winds and brass present the opening theme in a humble, yet stately manner as the low instruments lay a rich harmonic foundation. The percussion section enters the picture at measure 22, changing the feeling of the piece to one of energy and exuberance. Propelled by insistently rhythmic figures in the low winds and brasses, the band builds several layers on musical texture upon one another, exploring and developing several new themes. Always increasing the momentum, the band reaches the climax of the piece at measure 83 with full force. Here, the major melodic and rhythmic elements converge, leading up to the bombastic compound-meter conclusion.
