Program Notes

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As a high school student in the 1970’s, I was impressed with and influenced by the music of Gustav Holst (1874-1934). I found Holst’s music moving, energetic, emotional, and infused with both a rich and exotic harmonic language. In 1930,  Gustav Holst wrote a masterful work entitled Hammersmith, named for the city he was well acquainted with for over 40 years. 

 

Remembering Hammersmith was written with the young musician in mind with the view of sharing with them the musical influence of Gustav Holst. Remembering Hammersmith begins with a Passacaglia passage and is based on my own impression and reflection of Holst’s Hammersmith.