Bright Shining as the Sun was commissioned by the Poplar Bluff, Missouri High School Band in honor of Kyle Dicken, who perished while trying to save his younger brother from a tragic house fire. As a band member, Kyle played the tuba and trombone and was a dedicated and popular member of the Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, and Marching Band. The hymn tune Amazing Grace is used throughout the work, both as a motive during the fast sections and in its entirety during the expressive middle section. As a tribute to his memory this work was played by members of the Poplar Bluff Band at Kyles memorial service.