The Outdoor Overture was written for the High School of Music and Art in New York City at the urging of the school's director of music, Alexander Richter. Richter told Copland that the piece would be an "opening gun" in a campaign by the school entitled "American Music for American Youth." Richter therefore suggested that the piece be "optimistic in tone, which would have a definite appeal to the adolescent youth of this country."

A bold opening for the entire orchestra is followed by a long, carefree trumpet solo. A march-like theme is developed, followed abruptly by a lyrical melody in the strings. Another march theme builds up into a return to the opening material, followed by a dramatic conclusion in which all of the previous themes are combined. The music is unpretentious and joyful throughout, succeeding both as a genial concert opener and as a work with special appeal for young performers.

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