The National Arts Centre Orchestra is preparing to host its 2024 SPHERE Festival in Ottawa.

Over a span of more than 10 days, the festival will bring together musicians, actors, dancers, artists, scientists, and community leaders from across the nation for a series of performances, discussions, and installations. This year’s theme highlights the essential importance of water and rivers.

Soprano Renée Fleming will showcase pieces from her 2021 album, “Voice of Nature: The Anthropocene,” accompanied by the National Arts Centre Orchestra under the direction of Alexander Shelley. The program will also feature a performance of “Twilight and Shadow” from “The Lord of the Rings,” as well as works by Björk and Burt Bacharach. The concert will be visually enhanced by curated imagery from the National Geographic Society. Joining Fleming on stage will be pianist Mahani Teave.

Fleming’s “Voice of Nature” performance is slated for September 20 at Southam Hall, starting at 8 p.m.