The world premiere of my companion pieces for Holst’s Planets went very well. The Charlotte Civic Orchestra, under the leadership of conductor Geoff Whitehead, really rose to the occasion and they played beautifully. Thank you Geoff and CSO! The Planets suite (with my Earth and Pluto included) was well received and the musicians were acknowledged with a spirited standing ovation. Special thanks abound… Geoff Whitehead for commissioning the movements, Ron Follas for his very musical rendition of the contrabassoon solo in Pluto, Tomoko Deguchi for keeping the beat in the Earth movement., all of the musicians in the CCO for all they do to bring great music to Charlotte, and everyone who gives their time and support to the CCO. Thank you.