Gustav Holst 150th Year Birthday Celebrations
What a marvellous evening! The mood was set by delicious drinks and bubbles with classy nibbles in the splendour of the Drawing Room organised by Ludice, one of the sponsors and organisors of the 150th Gustav Holst Birthday Celebratory Concert.
The Bristol Players beautifully presented themselves in front of a near full-house in the main hall at the Cheltenham Town Hall under the experienced and controlled baton of Tom Gauterin.
The first half of the concert showcased two slightly lesser-known but musically impressive works by Holst, A Fugal Overture, Op 40/1 and Ballet from ‘The Perfect Fool’ Op.39. These were followed by an absolute treat by fellow composer Grieg, Piano Concerto in A Minor Op.16 expertly performed by guest star soloist Sir Stephen Hough. The second half featured ‘A London Symphony’ by Holst’s great friend Vaughan Williams. The repertoire blended wonderfully and was well chosen featuring works by peer composers who inspired and supported Cheltenham’s dear composer Holst.
Aside from the planned programme were the encores: notably a jovial and virtuosic piano solo by Sir Stephen Hough, and at the very end of the evening a highly entertaining orchestral rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ ending the celebrations with some sonic fireworks!
