Gustav Holst Quotes

A collection of quotes by Gustav Holst.

Gustav Holst (1874-1934) was an English composer, predominantly known for his orchestral suite "The Planets." He was born in Cheltenham, England, into a musical family, and began his musical studies as a pianist and violinist. Eventually, he focused on composition, studying at the Royal College of Music in London.

Holst's diverse musical interests led him to experiment with various compositional styles, including folk tunes, Eastern melodies, and unconventional harmonies. As a result, he developed a distinctive musical language characterized by its unique blend of influences.

Although he composed a wide range of works, it was "The Planets," composed between 1914 and 1916, that brought him international acclaim. Each movement of the suite, representing a different planet, showcases Holst's ability to evoke vivid musical imagery while exploring the emotions and characteristics associated with the celestial bodies.

Apart from his composition work, Holst was an active teacher and conductor. He taught at St Paul's Girls' School in London for nearly 30 years and conducted various choral and orchestral groups. Despite suffering from poor health throughout his life, Holst continued to compose until his death.

Gustav Holst's innovative approach to composition and his enduring masterpiece, "The Planets," have firmly established him as one of England's most influential composers.