(July 2024) Episode 588 is GUSTAV HOLST. He’s best known for “The Planets,” both for its own inherent power and grace, but also for its wide influence on 20th century music, including rock, and especially on John Williams’ Star Wars themes. (It was inspired by astrological rather than astronomical ideas.) His compositions cover a big range, from opera to orchestral and lots of choral (secular and church). The other thing he’s known for is incorporating themes from English folk music and Indian mythology.
Favourite piece: The Planets
Favourite movement: Mars
Compared to expectations: same
Recommendation: The Planets is the best thing.
Opus Project 