Answer:
Timpani, the large drums featured in orchestras, originated more than 2000 years ago in ancient empires.
Explanation:
This is one way to add the description after the noun. It's called an "appositive phrase" Timpani=drums So there are two nouns in a row that refer to the same thing.
Another way:
Timpani, which are large drums featured in orchestras, originated more than 2000 years ago in ancient empires.
That's a relative clause. It substitutes the relative pronoun, 'which' for timpani, and keeps the verb, 'are.'
The images in this poem convey the author's sadness and longing for his home country because they are rich, colorful, and he describes them with heightened reverence. He even uses the religious image of "mystical skies<span> In benediction over nun-like hills" (meaning it feels like the skies are praying over the hills that look line nuns) to show how much he respects his home land. </span>