September 13, 2024 — In a historic achievement blending engineering, artistry, and space exploration, SpaceX engineer Sarah Gillis has become the first person to play the violin in space. On September 13, 2024, Gillis performed “Rey’s Theme” from Star Wars: The Force Awakens while aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft, floating in the zero-gravity environment of orbit.
Gillis’s performance, captured in a music video titled “Harmony of Resilience,” not only marks a pioneering moment in space history but also serves a greater purpose. The video merges her celestial violin performance with visuals of orchestras on Earth, illustrating a profound message of unity and teamwork.
This innovative project supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and El Sistema USA, using the platform to promote hope and resilience. By merging the realms of space exploration and classical music, Gillis has opened a new chapter in the celebration of human creativity and collaboration, inspiring audiences both in space and on Earth.