Moonstone is the composer’s favorite gemstone. Though not very bright, it has a unique, elegant sparkle. This composition reflects that understated beauty. The main melody in Moonstone has long, but lyrical phrasing with an enjoyable conversation between the higher and lower instruments. Although the time signature is in 4/4, the music should feel as if it is in cut-time to avoid sounding too square. The phrasing is always floating through the air in a legato style. However, the eighth-note detaché should be executed mechanically, but in a mysterious mood.