“The Planets” is composer Gustav Holst’s most famous piece, with each movement named after a planet of the solar system.
The Sequoia Symphony will kick off its spring season by performing the piece on Saturday, January20 at the Visalia Fox Theatre.
Parts of the piece have been used in many film and advertising soundtracks. Music varies from the terrifying “Mars,” the spiritual “Jupiter” and the strange grandeur of “Saturn.”
Also on the program is Ravel’s “Piano Concert in G major,” which is heavily influenced by jazz (many say it has the feel of Gershwin).
Pianist Steven Lin, a rising star in classical music, returns to perform with the symphony, hot off his debut in the Off-Broadway production of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” with the Signature Theatre Company.
“It’s a production where they feature mostly solo piano music,” he said. “I was on stage with all the actors! It was a very exciting time for me because I’ve never done anything like this!”
The concert begins at 7:30pm at the Visalia Fox Theater, but the audience is encouraged to come to music director Bruce Kiesling’s preview at 6:45pm to learn more about the composers and music.
Tickets are $22 to $45 at the symphony office, 208 W. Main Street, Suite D, Visalia, downstairs in Montgomery Square.
Student prices are $10. Tickets are also available at 732-8600 or go to www.sequoiasymphonyorchestra.com.