A singer performs before an orchestra in a wood-paneled concert hall.

2025 · New York Philharmonic — David Geffen Hall

Orpheus Orchestra Opus Onus

An orchestra performs in a large wood-paneled concert hall viewed from the audience.

Written and performed by Kate Soper, Orpheus Orchestra Opus Onus combines music and theatrical staging in a contemporary reconsideration of the Orpheus myth.

An orchestra rehearses onstage in a wood-paneled hall with empty seats in the foreground.

A conductor leads an orchestra from the center of a wood-paneled concert stage.

Presentations

2025: New York Philharmonic — David Geffen Hall · New York
2023 (development workshop): New Works Festival, Smith College · Massachusetts

Composer: Kate Soper

Recognition

The New York Times — Best Classical Music of 2025, So Far

Press

Orpheus Orchestra Opus Onus

“Best Classical Music of 2025, so far.”

Orpheus Orchestra Opus Onus

“A sensationally witty and profound monodrama about the meaning of music for amplified soprano and large orchestra.”

Orpheus Orchestra Opus Onus

“Soper used her seductive speaking voice and stunning soprano to make a strong case – sometimes enthralling, always entertaining – for the future of music.”