Did you know the Jupiter chorale theme was later adapted into the hymn "I Vow to Thee, My Country"? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Gustav Holst: Visionary Composer of The Planets
Gustav Holst's suite "The Planets, Op. 32" is a famous and influential work in classical music. Here are some interesting facts about this composition:
Inspiration from Astrology: Holst composed "The Planets" between 1914 and 1916. Each of the seven movements is named after a planet in our solar system (excluding Earth) and is meant to represent the astrological characteristics associated with each planet.
Mars, Bringer of War: The first movement, "Mars, the Bringer of War," is perhaps the most famous and intense. It has been used in various films and television shows, including "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones" and "The Right Stuff." Its aggressive and martial character captures the horrors of war.
Venus, Bringer of Peace: In contrast to the first movement, "Venus, the Bringer of Peace" is serene and beautiful. It's often described as one of the most sensuous and romantic pieces in classical music.
First World War Influence: Holst composed "The Planets" during World War I, and the war's influence is reflected in the music. The suite captures the tumultuous emotions and uncertainty of the time.
The Missing Planet: Although Pluto was discovered in 1930, it's not included in "The Planets" because the suite was composed before Pluto's discovery. In recent performances and adaptations, some musicians have added a movement for Pluto as a tribute.
Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity: The fourth movement, "Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity," is known for its upbeat and celebratory character. The central melody in this movement is used in the hymn "I Vow to Thee, My Country."
Influence on Film Scores: Holst's "The Planets" has had a significant influence on film composers. Many later composers, including John Williams, have drawn inspiration from Holst's work when creating music for science fiction and space-themed movies.
Unconventional Orchestration: Holst employed unconventional orchestration techniques in "The Planets." For example, in "Uranus, the Magician," he uses a bass oboe, a relatively rare instrument, to create unique and otherworldly sounds.
Saturn's Time Signature: "Saturn, the Bringer of Old Age" is notable for its use of the time signature 5/4, which adds to the sense of instability and unease in the music.
Holst's Personal Connection: Holst had a keen interest in astrology and mysticism, which influenced his decision to compose a piece based on the planets. However, he didn't believe in the validity of astrology as a science.
Posthumous Success: While "The Planets" wasn't an immediate success, it has become one of Holst's most famous and enduring works. Today, it is considered a masterpiece of 20th-century classical music.
"The Planets" remains a captivating and innovative composition, known for its vivid portrayal of the planets and their associated mythological and astrological symbolism. It continues to be performed and appreciated by audiences around the world.