Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gustav Holst with the release of "Holst: The Cloud Messenger," a captivating orchestral journey set to be unveiled on April 24, 2020, under the esteemed Delphian Records label. This album is a testament to Holst's mastery of classical composition, offering a rich tapestry of sound that spans nearly an hour of exquisite musical storytelling.
The centerpiece of the album is Holst's "The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111," presented here in a stunning chamber version. This intricate work is a vivid musical depiction of a cloud's journey, from its divine origins to its life-giving role on Earth. Each movement is a distinct scene, painted with Holst's signature orchestral colors and rhythmic vitality. From the prelude's ethereal beginnings to the final chorus's triumphant crescendo, the piece is a tour de force of orchestration and imagination.
Complementing "The Cloud Messenger" are five part-songs from Holst's "Op. 12, H. 61," offering a more intimate counterpoint to the larger orchestral work. These pieces showcase Holst's ability to convey deep emotion and poetic beauty in a smaller musical canvas. Tracks like "Dream Tryst" and "Now is the Month of Maying" are particularly noteworthy, their lyrical melodies and harmonies a delight for the ears.
Gustav Holst, known for his innovative approach to orchestration and his ability to blend diverse musical influences, brings his unique voice to this album. "Holst: The Cloud Messenger" is not just a collection of tracks but a cohesive musical experience that highlights the composer's genius and his enduring impact on the classical music landscape. Whether you're a longtime fan of Holst or a newcomer to his work, this album promises a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
Tracks
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Prelude - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: O thou, who com’st from Heaven’s king - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: In the city of the Great God - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Bringer of rain - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Rushing northward - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: See how all greet thee - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Behold the villages - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: As the rain descends - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Tarry not, O cloud, tarry not - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, Caitlin Goreing, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Tarry not, O cloud - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: And hark! - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Thou hast reached the snowy peaks - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: And see! The Great God himself - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Chorus (Moderato maestoso) – Vivace - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: When the dancers are weary - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: Wait near her flower-covered window - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: The Message (I, the bringer of the rain) - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
The Cloud Messenger, Op. 30, H. 111: 'Beloved!' - Chamber VersionGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
Five Partsongs, Op. 12, H. 61: Dream TrystGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
Five Partsongs, Op. 12, H. 61: Ye little birdsGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
Five Partsongs, Op. 12, H. 61: Her eyes the glow-worm lend theeGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
Five Partsongs, Op. 12, H. 61: Now is the month of MayingGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
Five Partsongs, Op. 12, H. 61: Come to meGustav Holst, The Choir of King's College London, Joseph Fort, The Strand Ensemble
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