Shine

Mozart, Haydn, Saint-Saens, Corigliano--all have used Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star as inspiration. Thanks to my theory students, I decided to try my hand at it, too. What evolved is something completely unlike its original conception. Some people need help. I was struck by the French lyrics that predate the Twinkle, Twinkle we all know. Roughly translated, they mean "Shall I tell you, Mama, the cause of my torment?" Watching so many friends, family members, and students struggle silently, I wanted to write something that might become a hand, reaching out to them in times of need. Sometimes, we can help, and sometimes we need help. This piece speaks directly to those who can offer a light, no matter how small, for others around them. Il faut aimer. One must love. As I challenged the choir who premiered this work: Who will you fight for today?