Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gustav Holst with this captivating collection of choral and orchestral works. Released in 2011 by Decca Music Group Ltd., this album showcases Holst's unique blend of classical elegance and mystical intrigue, spanning a rich 1 hour and 9 minutes.
The album opens with Holst's Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda, a series of hymns translated from the Sanskrit by Holst himself. These pieces, composed between 1909 and 1910, reflect Holst's fascination with Eastern mysticism and his ability to translate ancient texts into hauntingly beautiful music.
Next, experience the chamber opera Savitri, a one-act opera that tells the story of a woman's battle against death. The opera's powerful themes and evocative music are brought to life by the talented cast and the English Chamber Orchestra.
The album also features Holst's Seven Part-Songs, a set of seven songs for unaccompanied chorus. These songs, ranging from the playful "Say Who Is This" to the tender "Love On My Heart From Heaven Fell," demonstrate Holst's versatility and his ability to capture a wide range of emotions in his music.
Finally, the album closes with The Evening Watch, a serene and reflective piece that leaves a lasting impression. Throughout the album, the Purcell Singers and the English Chamber Orchestra provide outstanding support, bringing Holst's music to life with their skill and passion.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Gustav Holst or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. With its rich variety of styles and themes, it offers a comprehensive introduction to Holst's unique musical vision.
Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda (third group, 1909-10) - translated from the Sanskrit by Gustav Holst: Hymn To The DawnGustav Holst, The Purcell Singers, Osian Ellis
Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda (third group, 1909-10) - translated from the Sanskrit by Gustav Holst: Hymn To The WatersGustav Holst, The Purcell Singers, Osian Ellis
Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda (third group, 1909-10) - translated from the Sanskrit by Gustav Holst: Hymn To VenaGustav Holst, The Purcell Singers, Osian Ellis
Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda (third group, 1909-10) - translated from the Sanskrit by Gustav Holst: Hymn Of The TravellersGustav Holst, The Purcell Singers, Osian Ellis
Sāvitri, Op. 25: Sāvitri! Sāvitri! I am DeathGustav Holst, Janet Baker, Robert Tear, Thomas Hemsley, English Chamber Orchestra, Imogen Holst
Sāvitri, Op. 25: Like a Spectre of the ForestGustav Holst, Janet Baker, Robert Tear, English Chamber Orchestra, The Purcell Singers, Imogen Holst
Sāvitri, Op. 25: I am with theeGustav Holst, Janet Baker, Thomas Hemsley, The Purcell Singers, English Chamber Orchestra, Imogen Holst
Sāvitri, Op. 25: Then enter, Lord; dwell with MeGustav Holst, Janet Baker, Thomas Hemsley, English Chamber Orchestra, The Purcell Singers, Imogen Holst
Sāvitri, Op. 25: Loneliness and Pain are endedGustav Holst, Janet Baker, Robert Tear, Thomas Hemsley, The Purcell Singers, English Chamber Orchestra, Imogen Holst
Seven Part Songs: Say Who Is ThisGustav Holst, The Purcell Singers, English Chamber Orchestra, Imogen Holst
Seven Part Songs: O Love, I ComplainGustav Holst, The Purcell Singers, English Chamber Orchestra, Imogen Holst
Seven Part Songs: Angel Spirits Of SleepGustav Holst, The Purcell Singers, English Chamber Orchestra, Imogen Holst
7 Partsongs, Op. 44: When First We MetGustav Holst, The Purcell Singers, English Chamber Orchestra, Imogen Holst
Seven Part Songs: Sorrow And JoyGustav Holst, The Purcell Singers, English Chamber Orchestra, Imogen Holst
Seven Part Songs: Love On My Heart From Heaven FellGustav Holst, The Purcell Singers, English Chamber Orchestra, Imogen Holst
Seven Part Songs: Assemble All Ye MaidensGustav Holst, Susan Longfield, The Purcell Singers, English Chamber Orchestra, Imogen Holst
The Evening Watch, Op. 43, No. 1Gustav Holst, The Purcell Singers, Imogen Holst