Originally entitled Symphony in F, Massenet's first Suite for Orchestra is the only non-programmatic suite among the seven written by the composer. He was in his early twenties when he composed the work, but it nevertheless reveals many of the stylistic characteristics that would define his later efforts, including his melodic elegance and colorful use of orchestration. The suite is in four movements: Pastorale et fugue; Variations; Nocturne; and Marche et strette. The first movement begins with a haunting Slavic theme, shared by instruments throughout the orchestra, and concluding with an energetic fugue. The gentle variations of the second movement are followed by an evocative and tender nocturne, which features one of Massenet 's characteristically exquisite melodies. The work concludes with a powerful march movement that makes colorful use of the orchestra's brass section.

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