GLISTEN

GLISTEN for concert band (grade 3)

Glisten was composed in September 2021. It is warm and gentle, with rich, lustrous harmonies and heartfelt, unpretentious melodies.

Something that glistens is said to shine, shimmer, and sparkle. I grew up near the ocean. and in my youth I spent many days on or near the water. The sunlight glistening on the water was enchanting and hypnotic.

Glisten has an ABA form, with the ‘A’ sections presenting an open, sincere, folksong-like melody that is harmonized with lush, complex colors. The central ‘B’ section builds to a peak explosion that subsides to bring the return of the modified ‘A’ section.

– Steve Rouse