Music of Mourning, Music of Triumph was composed in consideration of tragic events, and is dedicated to the victims and survivors. Although is is not programmatic, there are moods intended for each movement:

• Elegy: introspection of the tragedy
• Psalm: reflection of sorrow and expression of hope
• Celebration: anticipation of resolution and acceptance

The mood of mourning is not based on regret for the senseless nature of tragedy but is a lament that such things can happen. The mood of triumph is not based on victory but is a fervent hope that such inhumanity will never be inevitable.

The Psalm is based on the the incipit and amen of the sequence Victimae paschali laudes: