Orchestra Kentucky, Maestro Jeffrey Reed and the Orchestra Kentucky Chorale present a musical exploration of the solar system with Gustav Holst’s celestial masterpiece, The Planets. Though first performed in 1918, this concert will be enhanced with 21st century technology, utilizing projected, 3D High Definition, animated video of images from NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope. As the music is performed by the largest Orchestra Kentucky ever assembled (85 musicians!), the audience will “fly” through space, “orbit” the planets and “land” – all from the comfort and safety of their seats at WKU’s Van Meter Hall.

“The Planets is a powerful, emotional work and with the projected Hubble images and animation it becomes an awe inspiring experience,” commented Maestro Reed.

The solar tour investigates Mars, Venus, Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.  Pluto is absent being undiscovered at the time it was written. “The music of The Planets focuses on astrological themes rather than the astronomical.  Each movement was composed to convey ideas and emotions associated with the planets influence on the psyche and not the Roman deities,” he added.

The concert concludes with a re-entry to Earth with John William’s Adventure on Earth from his film score, E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial.

The Planets will be performed September 13th in the newly renovated Van Meter Hall at 7:30.  There will be a pre-concert talk with Maestro Reed at 6:45 in the hall.  Free shuttle service across the street from Mariah’s and the Adams Street parking lot.  Valet parking is $10.

Tickets starting at just $10! Call 270-846-2426 or visit OrchestraKentucky.com.

This concert is made possible by Colonel Robert and Cora Jane Spiller with additional support from U.S. Bank and First Choice Home Medical.