The soothing swell of violins and low hum of cellos is joined by the gentle plucking of a harp and contemplative notes of an oboe. The melody gently sways in tempo and power, never losing its sense of relaxed ease. The mood is serene, wondrous, and sorrowful, conjuring images of pristine ice-covered lakes, implacable mountainsides, and the silent peace that accompanies the desolation of winter.