Holst's interest in Indian philosophy led him to study Sanskrit and create English versions of texts from the Rig Veda, which he set as choral hymns.
Composer Biography
Before dedicating himself to composition, Holst earned a living as a trombonist, touring with the Carl Rosa Opera Company and playing with the Scottish Orchestra.
Composer Biography
Gustav Holst, the composer, was of mixed Scandinavian, German, and Russian descent, with his family settling in England in the early 19th century.
Composer Biography
Holst's lifelong friendship with fellow composer Ralph Vaughan Williams began at the Royal College of Music in London, where they offered free criticism of each other's compositions.
Performer Biography
JoAnn Falletta is a champion of American music, having presented nearly 500 works by American composers, including over 100 world premieres.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Holst's interest in Indian legends is evident in his symphonic poem Indra, which is based on the Indian legend of the god of the heavens and his conflict with the demon Vritra.
Performer Biography
JoAnn Falletta, the conductor on this album, serves as Music Director of the Buffalo Philharmonic and Virginia Symphony in the United States and Principal Conductor of the Ulster Orchestra in Northern Ireland.
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