Atmospheres aims to excite the audience’s imagination and shed light on the underappreciated life and vitality of Earth’s sister planet, Venus. The title refers to the shining, gaseous sky above the planet Venus, a nod to Gustav Holst’s take on the celestial body in The Planets suite for orchestra (1914-16). Inspired both by Holst and scientific discoveries of potential Venusian phosphine gas in September 2020, the work explores the possibility of alien and human life in the clouds of Venus. Through dense orchestral textures, soaring romantic melodies, and a triumphant coda, Atmospheres paints a hopeful picture for future exploration of Venus, fueled by the human capacity to dream and wonder.
Orchestra Senzaspine, Primavera Chigiana, Siena, 6/24/23