Both Gustav Holst's "The Planets" and Aaron Copland's "Appalachian Spring" on this album are performed in transcriptions by Merlin Patterson.
Performer Biography
The University of Houston Wind Ensemble is conducted by Eddie Green.
Composer Biography
Gustav Holst, composer of "The Planets," originally intended to be a professional pianist or organist, but a severe case of neuritis in his right hand and arm led him to play the trombone instead.
Composition History
The origin of Gustav Holst's "The Planets" can be traced to a 1913 conversation with his friend Clifford Bax, who discussed astrology and the character of each planet.
Compositional Technique
The final movement of Gustav Holst's "The Planets," "Neptune, the Mystic," uses a wordless women's chorus to create a mystical and atmospheric effect, fading into timelessness.
Composer Biography
Aaron Copland, composer of "Appalachian Spring," studied with Nadia Boulanger in Paris for three years.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Gustav Holst, composer of "The Planets," had strong views on composition, advising, 'Always ask for advice but never take it' and 'Never compose anything unless the not composing of it becomes a positive nuisance to you.'
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