As indicated by the "Tempo di Valse Allegretto" marking, the piece proceeds with a graceful waltz rhythm. At first listen, the sweet, love-filled melody, reminiscent of an intimate moment between lovers, is striking. However, the title on the score, "to Mother," reveals that this piece was written by the composer Barber to express his feelings for his mother. Composed in April 1924, during Barber's transition from boyhood to youth, the piece captures his deep bond with his mother as a form of love.

The luxurious sound discernible from the opening evokes an American sense of sophistication and richness. Harmonic changes, such as those seen in measures 9 and 11, add further depth to this sound, emphasizing its breadth and luster. Performers should grasp these changes firmly and play with a sense of immersing themselves in the sound.

In the climax from measure 17 onwards, continuing through measures 18 and 19, it is crucial to particularly emphasize the depth of the bass, using its gravitas to support the dramatic and resolute execution of the ascending right-hand figures. Beyond mere brilliance, the entire piece should be rendered expressively, conveying the personal thoughts and emotional flow embedded within it.