Gustav Holst's "Holst: Orchestral Works, Vol. 2" is a captivating collection of his most enchanting and lesser-known compositions, conducted by the esteemed Sir Andrew Davis and performed by the BBC Philharmonic. Released on February 22, 2011, under the Chandos label, this album spans a diverse range of musical landscapes, offering a rich and immersive experience for classical music enthusiasts.
The album opens with "Beni Mora," a suite that transports listeners to the vibrant streets of North Africa, followed by the exotic allure of the "Japanese Suite," which paints a vivid sonic portrait of traditional Japanese culture. The centerpiece of the collection is Holst's iconic "The Planets," a grand orchestral work that explores the celestial bodies through a series of vivid and dynamic movements, each imbued with its own distinct character and mood.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album showcases Holst's mastery of orchestration and his ability to evoke a wide range of emotions and imagery through music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Holst's work or a newcomer to his compositions, "Holst: Orchestral Works, Vol. 2" is sure to delight and inspire, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights some of the most beautiful and evocative works in the classical repertoire.
2011 Chandos Records2011 Chandos Records
Tracks
Beni Mora, Op. 29 No. 1, H. 107: I. First DanceGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Beni Mora, Op. 29 No. 1, H. 107: II. Second DanceGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Beni Mora, Op. 29 No. 1, H. 107: III. Finale. In the Streets of the Ouled NaïlsGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Japanese Suite, Op. 33, H. 126: I. Prelude. Song of the FishermanGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Japanese Suite, Op. 33, H. 126: II. Ceremonial DanceGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Japanese Suite, Op. 33, H. 126: III. Dance of the MarionetteGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Japanese Suite, Op. 33, H. 126: IV. Interlude. Song of the FishermanGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Japanese Suite, Op. 33, H. 126: V. Dance under the Cherry TreeGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Japanese Suite, Op. 33, H. 126: VI. Finale. Dance of the WolvesGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: I. Mars, the Bringer of WarGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Manchester Chamber Choir
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: II. Venus, the Bringer of PeaceGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Manchester Chamber Choir
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: III. Mercury, the Winged MessengerGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Manchester Chamber Choir
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: IV. Jupiter, the Bringer of JollityGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Manchester Chamber Choir
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: V. Saturn, the Bringer of Old AgeGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Manchester Chamber Choir
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: VI. Uranus, the MagicianGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Manchester Chamber Choir
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: VII. Neptune, the MysticGustav Holst, Andrew Davis, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Manchester Chamber Choir
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