The music of Sailing! is characterized by an atmosphere that is vibrant and full of energy. The piece depicts a ship’s journey on the ocean, the colors of which can readily change from a rich, welcoming blue to a dark, menacing gray. Sometimes the ship is sprayed by the waves; sometimes the ship floats blithely along a sea of tranquility. Articulations play a prominent role in this piece, with a combination of staccatos and slurs expressing sensations of happiness and joy in the ocean journey.