Gustav Holst's "Fide et literis," set for release on December 6, 2024, under EM Records, is a captivating journey through the composer's orchestral and choral masterpieces. This album, spanning a rich 69 minutes, offers a comprehensive exploration of Holst's diverse musical language, from his evocative suites to his profound choral works.
The album opens with the vibrant "St. Paul's Suite," showcasing Holst's ability to blend folk-like melodies with sophisticated orchestral textures. The suite's lively "Jig" and the rhythmic "Ostinato" are followed by the introspective "Intermezzo" and the triumphant "Finale 'The Dargason'." The "Brook Green Suite" further highlights Holst's orchestral prowess, with its delicate "Prelude," serene "Air," and spirited "Dance."
Holst's choral works are represented by the "7 Choruses from the Alcestis of Euripides," a collection that demonstrates his skill in setting ancient Greek texts to music. These choruses, ranging from the celebratory "O Paian Wise!" to the reflective "I Have Sojourned in the Muses' Land," offer a glimpse into Holst's ability to convey a wide range of human emotions through choral music.
The album also includes the lesser-known "Playground Song" and the dramatic "The Vision of Dame Christian," a choral work that showcases Holst's narrative abilities. From the haunting "Prelude" to the powerful "Finale," this piece is a testament to Holst's compositional skill and his ability to create compelling musical stories.
"Fide et literis" is a testament to Gustav Holst's enduring legacy, offering a diverse collection of works that showcase his unique musical voice. Whether you're a longtime fan of Holst's music or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to provide a rewarding and engaging listening experience.
Tracks
St. Paul's Suite, Op. 29 No. 2, H. 118: I. Jig. VivaceGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara
St. Paul's Suite, Op. 29 No. 2, H. 118: II. Ostinato. PrestoGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara
St. Paul's Suite, Op. 29 No. 2, H. 118: III. Intermezzo. Andante con motoGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara
St. Paul's Suite, Op. 29 No. 2, H. 118: IV. Finale "The Dargason"Gustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara
Brook Green Suite, H. 190: I. PreludeGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara
Brook Green Suite, H. 190: II. AirGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara
Brook Green Suite, H. 190: III. DanceGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara
Gavotte, H. 190aGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara
7 Choruses from the Alcestis of Euripides, H. 146: No. 1, O Paian Wise!Gustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara, EM Marshall-Luck, Paulina Voices
7 Choruses from the Alcestis of Euripides, H. 146: No. 2, Daughter of Pelias, Fare Thee WellGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara, Paulina Voices
7 Choruses from the Alcestis of Euripides, H. 146: No. 3, Oh, a House That Loves the StrangerGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara, Paulina Voices
7 Choruses from the Alcestis of Euripides, H. 146: No. 4, Ah Me! FarewellGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara, Paulina Voices
7 Choruses from the Alcestis of Euripides, H. 146: No. 5, Advance, AdvanceGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara, Paulina Voices
7 Choruses from the Alcestis of Euripides, H. 146: No. 6, I Have Sojourned in the Muses' LandGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara, EM Marshall-Luck, Paulina Voices
7 Choruses from the Alcestis of Euripides, H. 146: No. 7, There Be Many Shapes of MysteryGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara, Paulina Voices
Playground Song, H. 118aGustav Holst, Paulina Voices, Leigh O’Hara
The Vision of Dame Christian, H. 101: No. 1, PreludeGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara
The Vision of Dame Christian, H. 101: No. 2, Knowest Thou Not the WarningGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara, Paulina Voices
The Vision of Dame Christian, H. 101: No. 3a, Oh Let Us Render Thanks to God AboveGustav Holst, Paulina Voices, Leigh O’Hara
The Vision of Dame Christian, H. 101: No. 3b, InterludeGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara, EM Marshall-Luck
The Vision of Dame Christian, H. 101: No. 4, How Shall We Tell of HimGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara, Paulina Voices
The Vision of Dame Christian, H. 101: No. 5, FinaleGustav Holst, BBC Concert Orchestra, Leigh O’Hara, Paulina Voices
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