Gustav Holst

I really just want to bring to your attention Jupiter from The Planets by Holst. If you close your eyes and listen to it, you can imagine yourself in a spaceship, approaching the giant mass that is the planet Jupiter. Imagine seeing its massive terrain and sweeping landscapes for the first time. Imagine traveling over it's humongous canyons and through it's towering mountains. Imagine seeing its enormity, up close in person, for the very first time. That's what this piece of music does to me.

Also, when I first heard it, I recognized that a part in the middle is often used to create church songs. While I am not a church goer, the memory of the familiarity of everyone singing in unity about a common belief adds just enough passion and drama to the piece to make it truly spectacular.

Watch it performed live:
Jupiter from The Planets