Composer: Gustav Holst
Works: Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda, Savitri, Seven Partsongs, The Evening Watch, Fugal Concerto, St Paul’s Suite, Ballet Music from The Perfect Fool, Egdon Heath, The Hymn of Jesus, Moorside Suite
Performers: Purcell Singers, Osian Ellis (harp), Imogen Holst, Janet Baker (mezzo), Robert Tear (tenor), Thomas Hemsley (baritone), English Chamber Orchestra, St Paul Chamber Orchestra, BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Adrian Boult, Elgar Howarth
Recording: Various, recorded between 1961 and 1992
Label: DECCA
Gustav Holst remains an enigmatic figure within the pantheon of English composers, often overshadowed by the popular acclaim of his orchestral suite, The Planets. However, this comprehensive two-CD collection from Decca highlights the breadth and depth of his oeuvre, presenting works that traverse a wide spectrum of influences, from the spiritual to the folk-inspired. The included pieces, such as the choral settings from the Rig Veda and the chamber opera Savitri, reveal Holst’s fascination with diverse literary traditions and his innovative synthesis of styles, which merit deeper appreciation beyond his more widely-known compositions.
The performances throughout this collection are commendable, particularly those under the baton of Sir Adrian Boult, who expertly balances the lush orchestration of pieces like The Hymn of Jesus and Egdon Heath. Boult’s interpretation of Egdon Heath is especially noteworthy; its atmospheric depth is captured with a keen ear for the work’s brooding essence, allowing the listener to navigate its intricate textures. The sound engineering, even in recordings from the 1960s, has been remarkably preserved, with a clarity that allows the intricate interplay of orchestral colors to emerge vividly.
Janet Baker’s portrayal in Savitri serves as a highlight of the collection; her rich, emotive mezzo-soprano brings a palpable intensity to the work’s exploration of love and death, emphasizing its mystical qualities. The Purcell Singers, under Imogen Holst’s direction, deliver a sensitive interpretation of the Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda, showcasing Holst’s skill in writing for chorus. The blend of voices is well-balanced, although comparisons with more recent recordings by the Holst Singers reveal a slight lack of atmospheric nuance in this particular rendition.
The chamber pieces, including the Fugal Concerto and St Paul’s Suite, are performed by the St Paul Chamber Orchestra with commendable precision. However, while the phrasing is efficiently executed, there are moments where warmth and expressiveness could be enhanced. The engineering of these recordings is notably superior, benefiting from advancements in sound technology that allow for a more intimate and detailed listening experience, further illustrating Holst’s intricate counterpoint and thematic development.
This collection stands as a significant testament to Holst’s diverse musical language, offering listeners a broad perspective on a composer who remains underappreciated in the shadow of his most famous work. The remastering of these historical recordings has ensured that they resonate with clarity and vitality, allowing for both seasoned listeners and newcomers to explore the richness of Holst’s artistry. Each work within this set serves not only as a testament to Holst’s unique voice but also as an invitation to engage with the broader tapestry of British music in the early 20th century. An essential acquisition for anyone interested in the depth of Holst’s contributions to the choral and orchestral repertoire, this collection deserves a prominent place in any classical music library.
