Alberta in Harmony: The Planets
ESO Classics Presented by National Bank

Alberta in Harmony: The Planets

Co-Production with Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Thursday, April 30, 2026 7:30 PM

About The Concert

The Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra joins the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra for two extraordinary masterpieces, a rare opportunity to hear a massed ensemble of more than 125 musicians on the Winspear Centre stage. Of his 1917 suite The Planets, composer Gustav Holst wrote, "The enormity of the universe revealed by science cannot readily be grasped by the human brain, but the music of The Planets enables the mind to acquire some comprehension of the vastness of space where rational understanding fails".

John Luther Adams’ Pulitzer Prize and Grammy Award-winning 2013 masterpiece Become Ocean is “a meditation on the deep and mysterious tides of existence. Life on Earth first emerged from the sea. And as the polar ice melts and sea levels rise, we humans find ourselves facing the prospect that once again we may literally become ocean.” (John Luther Adams)

This concert will include an intermission.

Prelude

Patrons of this event are invited to attend a prelude presentation before this concert on Thursday, April 30, starting at 6:45 PM in the Upper Circle Lobby (3rd Floor). This talk by special guest D.T. Baker is a fantastic way to learn more about the pieces being performed in your concert.

Program to Include

HOLST
The Planets
JOHN LUTHER ADAMS
Become Ocean
ESO Premiere

Program subject to change.

Featured Artists

Naomi Woo, Conductor
ESO Debut
Belle Canto (Heather Johnson, artistic director)
Cantilon Chamber Chorus (Heather Johnson, artistic director)

Hear music from this concert

96 - Classics Series Descriptions

About ESO Classics

ESO Classics are dynamic and engaging concerts that feature the most memorable orchestral pieces. This masterworks series is our flagship and showcases the greatest symphonic masterpieces in classical music. From Bach and Handel in the Baroque period and Mozart and Beethoven in the 18th century Classical period, all the way to 21st century contemporary composers, this series encompasses the best of classical music. Our world-class musicians are joined by some of the most talented soloists from around the world, delivering unparalleled performances of these illustrious works. Let the timeless beauty of live classical music enrich and transport you!