Perhaps the most recognizable aspect of the piece is its climax, in which cannons are fired, punctuating a theme played by the horns, meant to represent the final triumphant moments of the battle when the Russian military forced the French into retreat. Because of the difficulties of using live cannons in performance, recorded cannons, bass drums or tam-tams are sometimes used in its place. There are 16 cannon shots throughout the piece.
Sometimes a brass band consisting of four horns, three trumpets and three trombones can be heard. The precise instrumentation of this brass band varies, but nonetheless serves to reinforce the mood of military solemnity within the piece. Occasionally, an organ can also be used in place of a brass ensemble.
Following a rapidly descending string passage representing the French retreat, a pealing of bells can be heard among a choral recitation of God Preserve Thy People. Sometimes tubular bells or carillons are played in its place.