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For many, space music is best heard in the rarefied environment of the
planetarium, an experience for those who appreciate the domed theater's
soaring depictions of the cosmos. The thrill of all-encompassing visual and
aural experiences is complemented by a music all its own.
Unquestionably the most prolific composer for the medium, Mark C.
Petersen's name is synonymous with planetarium music. He has recorded and
produced soundtracks for more than 50 planetarium shows, presented in more than
750 planetaria in the U. S. and 42 other countries. Mark has also performed
live in concerts at major planetarium facilities in the U.S. and Great Britain.
CNN's Showbiz Today showcased Mark in a feature on planetarium
space music.
Mark uses digital samplers and synthesizer sounds to create his unique brand
of planetarium space music. From the desolate planetscapes of Mars to flights
of fantasy through deep space, the music portrays magnificent visions of the
universe. Relaxing, yet provocative, the styles include the ethereal,
beautifully floating music that characterizes traditional space music, as well
as more dynamic and rhythmic works that transcend their e-music heritage. Mark
infuses all his music with rich textures that are the signature of the
Geodesium sound.
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For this, the sixth album of the Geodesium (pronounced Gee-oh-dee-zee-um)
series, Mark has arranged various "suites" from the best of his
planetarium soundtrack work over the last two decades. Avid Geodesium fans may
recognize some familiar themes among the works comprising this retrospective
collection.
From Fourth Universe, Mark employs additional tracks and deeper stereo
fields in revisiting Martian Mysteries; On Orbit and
Red Planet Rhapsody are reprised in more complex and satisfying
detail. In Great Dark Spot, he enriches the instrumentation in
reworking the haunting Chetro Ketl from Anasazi. Winter Sunrise provides a bridge from that previous album,
transitioning the listener from the desert spaces of Earth to the star-filled
realms of Andromeda.
Thanks to John Wharton and Hal Donovan, Steve Savage, Kevin Scott, and Paul
Dusenbery for commissioning the projects that inspired the creation of this
music. And, always, Mark offers special thanks to Carolyn Collins Petersen for
her critical eyes, ears, and support while this album was coming into
existence.
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