MOONS & PLANETS
BOULDER PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
SCOTT O’NEIL, guest conductor
HEINS
Moons of the Giants | World Premiere
I. Proteus
II. Ariel
III. Enceladus
IV. Titan
V. Europa
VI. Io
HOLST
The Planets
I. Mars, the Bringer of War
II. Venus, the Bringer of Peace
III. Mercury, the Winged Messenger
IV. Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity
V. Saturn, the Bringer of Old Age
VI. Uranus, the Magician
VII. Neptune, the Mystic
Overview
The Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra is thrilled to announce Moons & Planets, a cosmic celebration honoring the 150th anniversary of composer Gustav Holst’s birth. This one-of-a-kind event, perfect for space enthusiasts and music lovers alike, will take place on Sunday, November 10th, at Macky Auditorium.
The highlight of the evening will be Holst’s iconic The Planets, a truly timeless masterpiece that, for over a century, has continued to enthrall audiences with its vivid musical colors and otherworldly magic. Alongside this classic work, the Philharmonic will premiere “Moons of the Giants,” a stunning new composition by local composer John Heins. Inspired by the majestic moons of our solar system’s giant planets, Heins’ piece adds a contemporary trail to this journey through space. We are honored to announce Fiske Planetarium will be providing a LIVE space flight simulation for this piece.
Beyond the music, Moons & Planets will host a variety of space-themed, interactive activities Plus, enjoy pre-concert activities from guest vendors, such as Space Science Institute, Fiske Planetarium, Black Swift Technologies, National Solar Observatory, and more! These Community Partners will offer fun, hands-on exhibits, offering a unique educational experience for attendees of all ages.
Join the Boulder Philharmonic for an evening where music and science meet under the stars. Experience the wonders of the universe through the lens of both sound and exploration, while celebrating the lasting legacy of one of classical music’s most visionary composers.
Schedule
Sunday – November 10, 2024 | 4 PM
Doors open at 2:45 PM
Venue
Macky Auditorium – Boulder, CO
Add Moons & Planets to your 3+ Flex Series Subscription and save 10% on all concerts you choose. BUILD YOUR OWN SERIES TODAY.
For personalized assistance with your ticket order, call the Boulder Phil Box Office at 303.449.1343 or email info@boulderphil.org.

Beyond the Performance

150 BIRTH ANNIVERSARY |
GUSTAV HOLST
Gustav Holst’s “The Planets” stands as a monumental achievement in orchestral music, captivating audiences with its vivid portrayal of the astrological characters of the solar system. Each movement, from the ominous “Mars, the Bringer of War” to the ethereal “Neptune, the Mystic,” showcases Holst’s extraordinary talent for orchestration and thematic development. This suite not only revolutionized early 20th-century classical music with its innovative use of harmony and rhythm but also left an indelible mark on popular culture and film scoring. Holst’s “The Planets” remains a timeless testament to his genius, continually inspiring and enchanting listeners with its cosmic grandeur and emotional depth.

COLORADO COMPOSER |
JOHN HEINS
Heins, a distinguished Colorado composer, has garnered acclaim for his innovative and evocative compositions that often draw inspiration from nature and mythology. His work “Moons of the Giants” exemplifies his unique ability to blend orchestral richness with thematic storytelling, taking listeners on a celestial journey through the mythical moons of ancient giants. The composition’s vivid orchestration and dynamic structure reflect Heins’ skill in creating immersive soundscapes that captivate the imagination and evoke the grandeur of cosmic legends. Through “Moons of the Giants,” Heins continues to solidify his reputation as a visionary in contemporary classical music..
