Holst: The Planets suite (Op.32) Jupiter, the bringer of jollity

Gustav Holst’s career was at a low ebb when he began composing The Planets in May 1914. So far, none of his major compositions had met with success.

The Planets transformed the composer’s fortunes. Its music has long been so familiar, even ubiquitous, that it’s hard to realise what a pioneering achievement it represents. The Planets (which was originally going to be called Seven Pieces for Orchestra) was a work of unabashed modernism, a breakthrough in colour, rhythm and musical symbolism.

The stirring Jupiter that we hear here conveys the movement in to the depths of space. Galumphing cross rhythms, carnival merriment and the grand central tune which Holst later arranged as a hymn.

Performed by BBC Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Susanna Mälkki.