By Braden Hanks
Today, we will chronicle the history of one of the most influential band composers of all time: Gustav Holst.
Gustav Holst began his life being born in Chenltenham, England, on September 21, 1874, as the first of two children. Through his early years, he frequently played piano, while violin bored him. This enjoyment was then coupled with is unknown weak vision and asthma.
Holst entered the musical industry with his first organist job in 1893, which grew his knowledge of choral music and composition, which would influence his compositions all throughout his life. It was only a few years later that Gustav would attend the Royal College of Music, where his picked up the trombone to earn money playing in orchestras and hopefully help his chest problems.
A few years later, Holst fell in love with a woman named Emily Isobel Harrison in 1901, as he began to write his most famous piece, The Planets.
After the release of his most famous work, Holst dove into the world of band music, coming up with such works as the two military band suites in both Eb and F. It is thought he received most of his influence for wind music through the famous composer Raelph Vaughn Williams, whom he was close friends with.
Late in life, in 1930, Gustav wrote the great Hammersmith, along with taking a speaking job at Harvard in 1932. Later, in 1934, he was given an option for a minor operation and limited life, or a major operation and a larger life. He chose the latter.
The operation was successful in may 1934, but his heart couldn't take the strain. He died on may 25th.
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