Immerse yourself in the rich, orchestral tapestry of Gustav Holst's "Holst: Orchestral Works, Vol. 3," released on October 1, 2013, under the prestigious Chandos label. This captivating collection showcases Holst's mastery of classical composition, blending the grandeur of the orchestra with the ethereal beauty of choral arrangements.
The album opens with "The Mystic Trumpeter," a revised 1912 work that weaves a narrative of mystical allure and poetic depth. The four-part structure takes you on a journey through evocative landscapes, from the haunting calls of the wild trumpeter to the serene conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.
Following this, the "First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155," unfolds in a grand, multi-movement spectacle. Inspired by Keats' "Ode on a Grecian Urn" and other poetic sources, this symphony is a testament to Holst's ability to translate literary beauty into musical form. The symphony's prelude, "Invocation to Pan," sets the stage with a choral invocation that calls upon the ancient Greek god, while the subsequent movements delve into themes of nature, myth, and human emotion.
The "Song and Bacchanal" movement is particularly noteworthy, featuring a soprano soloist who narrates scenes of revelry and nature's splendor. The "Scherzo" movement adds a touch of whimsy with its playful "Fancy" and "Folly's Song," showcasing Holst's versatility and wit. The symphony culminates in a powerful finale that brings together all the elements of the work in a triumphant conclusion.
Throughout the album, Holst's orchestral prowess is evident, with each movement meticulously crafted to evoke a range of emotions and imagery. The choral elements add a layer of depth and richness, making this a truly immersive listening experience.
"Holst: Orchestral Works, Vol. 3" is a celebration of Gustav Holst's enduring legacy, offering a glimpse into the mind of a composer who seamlessly blended tradition with innovation. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a rewarding and enriching journey through the world of orchestral and choral music.
Tracks
The Mystic Trumpeter, Op. 18, H. 71: Hark! Some wild trumpeter (Revised 1912)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Susan Gritton, Sir Andrew Davis
The Mystic Trumpeter, Op. 18, H. 71: Blow again, trumpeter - O, how the immortal phantoms crowd around me (Revised 1912)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Susan Gritton, Sir Andrew Davis
The Mystic Trumpeter, Op. 18, H. 71: Blow again, trumpeter - O trumpeter (Revised 1912)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Susan Gritton, Sir Andrew Davis
The Mystic Trumpeter, Op. 18, H. 71: Now trumpeter, for thy close (Revised 1912)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Susan Gritton, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, Prelude: Invocation to Pan "O Thou, whose mighty palace roof doth hang" (Chorus)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, I, Song and Bacchanal: Ia. Beneath my palm trees, by the river side (Soprano)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Caroline Harrison, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, I, Song and Bacchanal: Ib. And as I sat, over the light blue hills (Soprano)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Susan Gritton, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, I, Song and Bacchanal: II - IV. Whence came ye, merry Damsels! whence came ye! (Chorus) - WGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Susan Gritton, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, I, Song and Bacchanal: V & VI. Onward the tiger and the leopard pants (Soprano) - Bacchus,Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Susan Gritton, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, II, Ode on a Grecian Urn: Thou still unravish'd bride of quietness (Chorus)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, II, Ode on a Grecian Urn: Heard melodies are sweet, but those undeard (Chorus)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, II, Ode on a Grecian Urn: Ah, happy boughs! that cannot shed (Chorus)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, II, Ode on a Grecian Urn: Who are these coming to the sacrifice? (Chorus)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, II, Ode on a Grecian Urn: O Attic shape! fair attitude! with brede (Chorus)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, III, Scherzo: I. Fancy "Ever let the Fancy roam" (Chorus)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, III, Scherzo: II. Folly's Song "When wedding fiddles are a-playing" (Chorus)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, IV, Finale: I & II. Spirit here that reignest! (Soprano) - God of the Golden bow (Chorus)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Susan Gritton, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, IV, Finale: III & IV. Then, through thy Temple wide (Soprano) - Tis awful silence then agaiGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Susan Gritton, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, IV, Finale: V & VIa. Next thy Tasso's ardent numbers (Soprano) - But when Thou joinest withGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Susan Gritton, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, IV, Finale: VIb. Bards of Passion and of Mirth (Chorus)Gustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
First Choral Symphony, Op. 41, H. 155, IV, Finale: VII. Spirit here that reignest! (Soprano) - Bards of Passion and of Mirth (ChorGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Susan Gritton, BBC Symphony Chorus, Sir Andrew Davis
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