The Compares Announcement Bars 1-9

This section begins the piece with a declamatory fanfare. The rising chromaticsm
hints at procgression and a continuation of movement. The rolling of the snare
drum and use of crescendo contribute to the beckoning of excitement.

The Equestrian Promenade Bars 26-33

The ascending scales sounded by the glockenspiel resemble the fast running of
horses. This section features a sequence which is repeated in a cyclic manner,
representing the circular running of the horses around the arena.

The Acrobatic Trapeze Bars 34-49

This section exudes gracefulness and paints a picture of the feather-light
acrobats. The steady rhythm gives the impression of ease and complete safety
as the acrobats soar daintily through the air. The countermelodies highlight the
intricacy of each acrobats skill, whilst contributing to one overall performance.
The rising and then falling movement used in the first trumpet is representative
of the acrobats sweeping through the air. An emphasis is made on the height
reached by the trapeze artists by exploring the top end of the second trumpets
range.

The Unicycling Jugglers Bars 50-56

Within this 2/4 section, the gimmicky, comic nature of the unicycling jugglers is
evident. Melodies carry over the beat rhythmically, as though the cyclist is
unsure of his balance. The feel is quick, as though the balance is difficult to
sustain.

The Elephant March

Elephants lazily plod along to the triplets in this section. The horn part offers long
sustained notes which signal the heavy footed movement of the hefty animals.

The Tightrope Walker Bars 80-88

This quirky section feels void of a steady beat this comic walker is clearly
playing dumb to his audience:, the dynamics are sporadic and the rhythm
uneven, bringing his observers to a point of suspense and anticipation!