If you haven't checked in on the Lexington Philharmonic — or the LexPhil, as they're familiarly known — in a while, now's the perfect time as it enters its 65th anniversary year. We were lucky enough to attend the recent opening night concert, which ended with a lengthy standing ovation.

Wild but true, the symphony's origins are credited to... the UK Department of Agriculture. In 1961, what was then the Central Kentucky Philharmonic Society formed to do background music for an ag department film. Their first season was three shows performed at Henry Clay High School with a $5 adult admission. In 1965, they rebranded as the LexPhil we know and love.

The symphony is more vibrant than ever. Music Director and Conductor Mélisse Brunet — the first female conductor in the orchestra's history — will be a powerhouse presence through at least the 2030-2031 season, following a contract renewal this year. Last week, a new collective bargaining agreement for the LexPhil's musicians that covers the next three years was announced. The unanimously ratified terms included pay increases for each year, improved travel reimbursements, and temperature limits for outdoor performances.

But classical music isn't for me, you might be thinking. If you see movies, you'll be surprised how easily the symphonic energy of a LexPhil performance sweeps you in. Symphonies have been the background soundtrack for some of your favorite artistic moments (whether you realize it or not). And a few shows a year tend to feature popular music you'll recognize.

In fact, you can catch the LexPhil having some fun this month:

🎃 "A Spooky Concert" by the LexPhil Woodwind Quintet | Thursday, Oct. 22 | 1 p.m. | Lexington Senior Center | Free for residents 60+ and their partners

🦸🏻‍♀️ "Heroes & Villains: Symphonic Movie Music" | Saturday, Oct. 24, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 25, 3 p.m. | Singletary Center | $30-80+

🎥 "Bee Taylor and the Lexington Philharmonic String Quartet: The Movie" | Nov. 5 | 7 p.m. | Kentucky Theatre | $13

If we see you there, we'll be sure to quote Brunet's signature salutation, "Bonjour, y'all."