This unique celebration of nature provides a relevant, emotional and personal exploration of our current relationship with the environment. It features four key pieces performed by Orchestra Nova™ and its guest artists under the dynamic leadership of artistic director and conductor Jung-Ho Pak:

The Lark Ascending, an impressionistic interpretation of the poem of the same name by George Meredith. Inspired by the majestic image of a beautiful skylark in flight, composer Ralph Vaughan Williams helps listeners soar freely among the clouds through a beautiful, floating violin solo. Lindsay Deutsch, principal guest artist on violin, lends her personal interpretation of this timeless piece.

Aqua, by Emmy-award winner Steve Heitzeg, celebrates the visionary spirit of ocean explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau. An emotional composition with 10 variations, Aqua journeys through the world’s oceans, and features percussionists playing driftwood, river stones, steel pipes and even plastic six-pack rings as a protest to the impact of pollution on sea life.

The world premiere of Surf, commissioned by Orchestra Nova and composed by Joseph Waters, takes guests on a wild ride, starting at the bottom of the ocean and rising up to feel the exhilaration of surfing high atop the ocean’s best waves. Violinist Lindsay Deutsch and saxophone player Todd Rewoldt, virtuosos of the highest order, are guest artists that play as dueling surfers. Waters also joins as guest artist on electronics; along with Joel Bluestone, percussionist; and Justin DeHart, percussionist. Surf is also accompanied by a special commissioned video by Zuriel Waters.

Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 (Pastoral Symphony) is his ode to nature and was revolutionary because it was one of the few pieces of his time that tells a story, a story of a trip to the countryside, a gathering of folks, a violent storm that moves in, then a celebration of thanks after the storm clears. It was composed amidst a busy time in his career and a time when he became aware that he was losing his hearing. Beginning to feel alienated, he found respite through regular trips to the countryside to immerse himself in nature, which inspired this piece.

A multimedia experience and discussions about the state and health of the oceans by Dr. Charles F. Kennel, senior advisor for the Sustainability Solutions Institute, UCSD, Beethoven’s escape to nature and more will accompany the artfully and expertly played music.

The orchestra’s signature Nova Experience is included in the ticket price and will immerse guests in activities and entertainment that engage the senses in Mother Nature’s best. Learn from experts from the Birch Aquarium and Free Flight bird sanctuary and discover eco-moguls of our time. Attendees can also purchase food and drink – the delicious menu will feature local produce and organic ingredients. Entrees include meatloaf and portobello sliders paired with mac 'n cheese and a local garden salad

The Nova Experience begins at 6:00 p.m. and the musical performance begins at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets range from $26 - $36; Students and educators - $10; Active military families - Free; $5 discount for retired military.

For concert or food tickets visit orchestranova.org or call 858-350-0290.