A bright jubilant introduction opens this dynamic overture by Steve Hodges. Consisting of two contrasting themes, the opening A section features the low brass playing the smooth theme over a syncopated pulse in the percussion. The theme is traded to the high woodwinds and trumpets as the texture explodes in a sea of melody and countermelody. A graceful transition leads into the expressive B theme, a delicate 3/4 melody introduced by the clarinet section. After a D.S., the theme is restated, building in intensity up to the triumphal finish. First class!