Program Notes by Lucinda Mosher, Th.D.

When, in 1915, Gustav Holst set to composing what he titled simply Seven Pieces for Large Orchestra, he had recently become enthralled by astrology. Each movement of this new work would be a tonal portrait of a planet’s psychological influence. The suite was completed in 1916. Its official premiere was in 1920, but portions were performed earlier. Our concert today features the first, second, and fourth movements.

Holst’s sound-portrait of Venus, the Bringer of Peace is delicate and icy. Listen for a solo horn, answered by woodwinds. Listen for the harp, flute, and oboe to have their say. Take note of the sound of a single violin floating above the full section. Listen also for interjections by the tinkling celesta—the instrument that, with regard to Venus, actually gets the last word!