Program Peek: “Rhythms of the Cosmos”
Rhythms of the Cosmos
February 7 • 2:30 PM
Newman Center for Performing Arts
From the very beginning of the universe, rhythm has been a force shaping everything we know: the pulse of stars, the orbit of planets, as well as the steady passage of time itself. On February 7, Denver Brass invites you on a sonic journey through space, motion, and energy, where bold brass, powerful percussion, and expansive harmonies bring the universe to life.
This concert explores the sounds and rhythms of the cosmos in every form: from the explosive power of celestial events to moments of quiet wonder, and from ancient planetary myths to futuristic visions of space travel. At the heart of the program is a world premiere that speaks directly to our shared human experience within the vastness of the universe.
World Premiere:
Guardians of Time —
Sean Schafer Hennessy
From the dawn of the universe, rhythm has governed existence: the vibration of matter, the spinning of galaxies, the beating of the human heart. In Guardians of Time, Sean explores these fundamental connections that have bound us together since the beginning. Through intricate meters and an expansive array of percussion, the piece reflects on how humanity moves through time—sometimes drifting apart, sometimes colliding—but always remaining connected.
Even as distance grows between people, cultures, or moments in history, we are never truly disconnected. The enduring rhythm of love, and the universe that binds us all, continues to pulse beneath everything we do. With its bold textures and kinetic energy, Guardians of Time reminds us that time does not separate us—it connects us.
Dreams, Time, and Connection
Andy Wolfe’s Out of a Dream depicts a mesmerizing musical landscape of lucid dreaming where consciousness and imagination merge. Listeners are carried from quiet stillness to vivid, surreal scenes, from ocean depths to the freedom of flight, before gently awakening.
A sense of introspection and quiet wonder is also found in Claude Debussy’s Clair de Lune. Gentle, luminous, and timeless, the piece reflects the stillness of moonlight and the deep, human experiences of tender melancholy and romantic yearning, reminding us that even within the infinite expanse of the cosmos, our inner worlds are just as vast.
A Journey Through Space, Motion, and Imagination
Rhythms of the Cosmos expands the idea of exploration with music that evokes discovery, wonder, and pure excitement. Richard Strauss’s iconic opening to Also Sprach Zarathustra captures the awe-inspiring power of sunrise, while cinematic favorites like Star Trek Generations and Journey to the Red Planet awaken a sense of courage and possibility, connecting us through a shared vision and belief that exploration is ultimately about understanding ourselves as much as the universe around us. The program also includes Andy Wolfe’s adventurous and whimsical Quest and Hunt as well as the exhilarating dance rhythms of Alberto Ginastera’s “Danza Final” from Estancia.
Our journey culminates with selections from Gustav Holst’s The Planets, as Mars and Jupiter bring the concert to a powerful close—capturing both the raw force and sweeping mysticism of the cosmos.
Looking for a full preview of this concert? Click Here for the Program!
Need a Pick-Me-Up?
Do you, or someone you know, need a pick-me-up? We want to make sure we can share the healing power of music with those who need it most right now! Whether you lost your job, are grieving, went through a break up, or just are feeling down - we are here for YOU.
Nothing lifts the spirits and mends the soul like great music with a supportive community. That's why Denver Brass is offering free tickets to those who need a Pick-Me-Up.
Please fill out the form below, and your tickets will be sent to the email address provided by the Newman Center Box Office on Friday, February 6.
Pick-Me-Up Promo is valid for the Rhythms of the Cosmos concert on February 7, 2026 at 2:30pm. This concert is held at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts, 2344 E Iliff Ave, Denver, CO 80210.
Promo ends on Thursday, February 5, 2026 at 11:30pm MST.
Can not be applied to existing or prior purchases.
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