Description

The Planets by Gustav Holst – BBC National Orchestra of Wales DVD

UPC: 809478009160

Product Features:

Title: The Planets
Composer: Gustav Holst, with Colin Matthews' additional movement Pluto, the Renewer
Performer: BBC National Orchestra of Wales
Conductor: David Atherton
Director: Rhodri Huw
Format: DVD
Region: Worldwide
Production Company: BBC Wales
Distributor: Opus Arte
Release Year: 2004

Overview

This visually stunning DVD presents The Planets, Gustav Holst's masterful orchestral suite, as performed by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales under the baton of David Atherton. The program includes an additional movement, Pluto, the Renewer, composed by Colin Matthews. Directed by Rhodri Huw, this performance is enhanced by a spectacular audiovisual journey, blending live footage from locations like New Mexico, Arizona, and Scandinavia, computer-generated imagery, and animatronics. Each planetary movement is paired with visuals that bring out its symbolic essence, offering a memorable experience to classical music lovers and new audiences alike.

Interesting Facts

The Planets by Holst, composed between 1914 and 1917, remains one of the most popular orchestral works of the 20th century.
Colin Matthews, a British composer, added the movement Pluto in 2000, completing the planetary suite in recognition of the then-recognized ninth planet of our solar system.
The BBC National Orchestra of Wales, known for its prominent broadcasts and recordings, enhances this performance with its atmospheric precision.
Rhodri Huw, the director, has a long history of creating innovative visual accompaniments for classical works, making this performance stand out with unique cinematography and imagery.
Holst's The Planets explores astrological meanings associated with each planet, such as Mars' association with war or Venus with peace.