Lyrics
Programme Notes
The inspiration behind Holst's
masterpiece, The Planets, came from a conversation the
composer had with Clifford Bax in 1913. Bax introduced
Holst to the subject of Astrology and its different
characterisations of the planets. Holst immediately saw
the possibilities of composing a large symphonic suite on
the subject and began work in 1914. The work was finished
in 1916 and received a private performance on 29 September
1918. The first public performance took place on 15
November 1920.
The popularity of Mars and Jupiter has
somewhat overshadowed the rest of the work. Mars is not,
as was thought at the first performance, a direct comment
on the First World War; Holst had completed the movement
before the events of August 1914. In its driving rhythms
and shattering climaxes though, it is a terrifying
portrait of war in general. Jupiter, with its bold tunes
and jovial atmosphere is a complete contrast, eschewing
the joys of living.
The real gems of the work can be found in
the achingly beautiful slow movments: Venus, with its
subtle and delicate orchestration; the powefully noble
Saturn, Holst's favourite; and the mystery of Neptune, its
chorus fading into the ether at the end of the work
suggesting the infinite possibilities of the Universe.
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