The glittering Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights, as they are better known, are depicted in a lushly stated main theme with the full ensemble. It begins in a 4/4 meter and then, like the ever-changing lights themselves, transforms into 7/8 giving the opening an exciting forward motion, led by trumpets and accompanied by woodwind and low brass ostinati. The composition continues with a romantic, lyrical section which depicts the beauty and mystery of the lights. The piece culminates with an exciting recapitulation of the main theme, concluding with riveting brass fanfares.