SPRINGFIELD —The Springfield Symphony Orchestra (SSO) will present ‘Planet Earth: A Symphonic Journey,’ a family-friendly matinée on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, at 3 p.m. at Springfield Symphony Hall.
The afternoon performance will feature a Planet Earth film over the orchestra, and pre-concert activities for all ages hosted by the Springfield Museums, the SSO’s community partner for this concert.
The concert will have the Springfield Symphony Orchestra performing both U.S. and world premieres of compositions by renowned guest conductor and composer Johan de Meij. Tickets for ‘Planet Earth’ are now on sale, starting at $25, online at SpringfieldSymphony.org, or by calling the SSO Box Office at (413) 733-2291.
The 3 p.m. concert is envisioned to be a family-friendly Valentine’s Day experience, with a multimedia performance and pre-concert activities for adults and children alike.
“This concert is about opening the doors wider at Symphony Hall and reimagining what a symphony experience can be for families today,” said Heather Caisse-Roberts, president & CEO of the SSO. “From Holst’s Jupiter to Johan de Meij’s Planet Earth and the world premiere of his T-Bone Concerto, this program blends big orchestral sound with film, storytelling, and a sense of discovery.
“Our partnership with the Springfield Museums adds hands-on fun before the music even begins, giving families a chance to explore, ask questions, and connect science and art in real time,” she went on. “It’s immersive, it’s accessible, and yes, you’ll still be out in time for Valentine’s Day dinner.”
De Meij’s Symphony No. 3 Planet Earth is an ode to Mother Earth, performed for the first time in the U.S. on the Springfield Symphony Hall stage. The film, created by de Meij’s wife, Dyan Machan, and directed by Jed Parker, will accompany the music on a big screen over the orchestra, making for a multi-dimensional experience for concertgoers. Also of note is the world premiere of de Meij’s T-Bone Concerto, consisting of three movements: Rare, Medium and Well Done. This piece will be highlighted by legendary trombonist Joseph Alessi, principal trombone of the New York Philharmonic, performing with the orchestra. The concert will also feature Gustav Holst’s famous Jupiter.
Concertgoers of all ages are encouraged to arrive early to take part in activities hosted by various science clubs affiliated with the Springfield Museums. Featured clubs will include the STARS Club, the Connecticut Valley Mineral Club and Naturalists Club, among others, and the Springfield Museums will also have a table with activities and information.
Dutch composer and conductor Johan de Meij (photo attached) has garnered international acclaim for his compositions. He has written five symphonies including Symphony No. 2 The Big Apple andSymphony No. 3 Planet Earth, and 10 solo concertos, including T-Bone Concerto (trombone) and Casanova (cello). His Symphony No. 1 The Lord of the Rings was awarded the Sudler Composition Prize in Chicago and has been recorded by myriad ensembles including The London Symphony Orchestra and The North Netherlands Orchestra.
De Meij has conducted in prestigious venues and has received 31 awards and nominations, including 1st Prize at the International Composition Competition of Corciano, Italy for Casanova, the Dutch Wind Music Award, the Buma Classical Award and the Buma Wind Music Award. De Meij received his musical training at the Royal Conservatory of Music in The Hague.
Before devoting his time exclusively to composing and conducting, de Meij enjoyed a successful professional career as a trombone and euphonium player, performing with the major orchestras and ensembles in The Netherlands.
Trombonist Joseph Alessi was appointed principal trombone of the New York Philharmonic in the spring of 1985. He is an active soloist, recitalist, and chamber music performer and has also participated in numerous festivals. In 2002, Alessi was awarded an International Trombone Association Award for his contributions to the world of trombone music and trombone playing, and in 2014, was elected president of that association.
Alessi is currently on the faculty of The Juilliard School; his students now occupy posts with many major symphony orchestras in the U.S. and internationally.
MassMutual and Mass. Cultural Council are Season Sponsors for the 2025-26 season. For more information and to purchase tickets for the 2025-26 season’s concerts, visit springfieldsymphony.org.
