Program Notes

First Suite in E♭

Gustav Holst, composer

The First Suite in E♭ was written for military band by Gustav Holst in 1909, marking a new epoch in band literature and being rarely, if ever, equaled by the composers who imitated it. The opening "Chaconne" is repeated incessantly by various instruments as others weave filigrees above the ground theme. The "Intermezzo" is based on a variation of the "Chaconne" theme, presented first in an agitated style, then in a cantabile mood, the two styles alternating throughout the movement. The two themes of the closing "March" are also taken from the opening "Chaconne" theme.

—Band Music Notes

First Suite in E♭, composed in 1909 by Gustav Holst, is generally regarded as the cornerstone of the exceptionally fine works for concert band composed by British composers. The opening theme of the "Chaconne" is repeated incessantly by various instruments as others weave varied filigrees about the ground theme. The "Intermezzo" is based on a variation of the Chaconne theme, presented first in an agitated style, then in a cantabile mood, the two styles alternating throughout the movement. The two themes of the "March," one dynamic and the other lyric, are also taken from the Chaconne theme.

—Charles H Luedtke, Dr. Martin Luther College

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