The passage discusses Richard Strauss's composition "An Alpine Symphony" and provides a critical analysis. It describes how the piece begins quietly with string and brass instruments, creating a feeling of suspense. A long trombone note introduces a funeral-like theme. Later, timpani and cymbals bring excitement as new instruments. Their crashing and rumbling represent the composer waking from sleep, feeling attached to daylight for his work. Strings, trombones and timpani then build drama throughout the composition.