"Ominous Seasons" begins dramatically with driving and rapidly shifting rhythmic motives. A melodic rhythmic theme is stated in the violins, and appears throughout the piece in various forms and instrumentations.

Early In the opening section, a soaring lyrical melodic theme is overlaid above a rhythmic ostinato and accompanied by tonal harmonies. This overlaying of gentler melodic material and harmonies over rhythmic ostinatos sets a precedent for other similar passages in the piece.

Antiphonal trumpets are a feature throughout the middle section. Plaintive melodies are presented by a trumpet on one side of the hall, and are echoed on the other side.

An eerie section occurs where many extended techniques are used to form a rhythmic groove. This area gradually dissipates, then transforms into another more ominous ostinato, which builds into the climax of the piece. This climax dies down as the percussion quietly enters to set the pace for a return to the opening dramatic rhythms and melodies.
— Nancy Galbraith

"Ominous Seasons" was commissioned by the Carnegie Mellon Philharomnic Orchestra to welcome their new music director, Daniel Nesta Curtis.