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Gustav Holst's "Second Suite in F for Military Band, Op. 28, No. 2" is a notable composition that showcases his skill in writing for wind instruments. Here are some interesting facts about the piece:

1. Composition Date: Holst composed the Second Suite in 1911, following the success of his First Suite in E-flat for Military Band, which he wrote in 1909.

2. Inspiration: The Second Suite draws inspiration from English folk tunes, and Holst incorporated several traditional melodies into the composition. This reflects his interest in folk music and its influence on his work.

3. Movements: The suite consists of four movements:

   • March: "Morris Dance, Swansea Town, and Claudy Banks"
   • Song Without Words (I'll Love My Love)
   • Song of the Blacksmith
   • Fantasia on the "Dargason"

4. Folk Tunes: As mentioned earlier, Holst incorporated folk tunes into the suite. For example, the third movement, "Song of the Blacksmith," is based on the folk song "I'll Love My Love." Holst's treatment of these tunes showcases his skill in arranging and adapting traditional melodies.

5. Performance Challenges: The Second Suite is known for its challenging musical elements, especially for the brass and woodwind sections. It requires precision, control, and expressive playing from the musicians.

6. Dargason Influence: The final movement, "Fantasia on the 'Dargason,'" is a lively and energetic piece. "Dargason" is a traditional English dance tune, and Holst's fantasia treatment adds a distinctive flair to the composition.

7. Legacy: Holst's Second Suite for Military Band is considered a staple in the repertoire for concert bands and military bands. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its musical richness and Holst's ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements in his compositions.