Gustav Holst: The Planets: Egdon Heath
Introduction
The Planets is one of the most popular pieces of classic music in Britain. There are countless numbers of recordings. Because of the inclusion of Egdon Heath ? Holsts? own favourite, I have chosen the recording on the Teldec label, conducted by Sir Andrew Davis and performed by the BBC Symphony Orchestra and BBC Symphony Chorus. Released in October 1994. It is my view that Sir Andrew Davies interpretation of Holst is one of the best.
The Composer
Gustavus Theodore von Holst was born in Cheltenham on 21st September 1874 (by happy coincidence this is also my birthday well the month and day but not the year.). He had a musical upbringing. His father was a piano teacher and from an early age Gustav was encouraged to practice the piano daily. He also studied the violin and trombone ...