Rautavaara described the origins of the piece in the score program note, writing:When I heard recorded performances by Colin Currie, I was impressed by the virtuosity and musicality in handling the various kinds of percussion instruments.
[3] Incantations is scored for a solo percussionist and orchestra, comprising two flutes, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, two French horns, three trumpets, two trombones, timpani, tubular bells, and strings.
Guy Rickards of Gramophone described the work's form as "an orthodox but compelling vehicle for Currie's blistering virtuosity" and praised the music for its "powerfully elemental undertow.
"[4] Martin Kettle of The Guardian reflected that the piece "manages to be both intensely innovative and highly conventional" and wrote:Rautavaara's concerto is dominated by a resplendent opening orchestral fanfare, which returns at the work's close.
[5] Tom Huizenga of NPR called the work "compelling" and remarked:The three-movement concerto is laid out in the tried and true fast-slow-fast formula, which plays into Currie's virtuosity in the outer movements.