As its title suggests, Placid is a peaceful, restful ballad. Take your audiences to a quiet, clear night with a fresh blanket of snow as the lovely melody carries through the entire piece, and is passed from musician to musician. With ad lib solo options included in all parts, there are echoes of a "Charlie Brown Christmas" here. Improvised solo options are available in all parts, and it's scored for three horns and rhythm, with optional parts for flugelhorn, trombone, flute, clarinet, and all four saxophones.