The Planets, Op. 32
Gustav Holst
Work background
Researched classical background
Holst organized The Planets around the astrological characters associated with seven planets. The movements are contrasting character pieces, from the irregular march of Mars to the fading voices of Neptune. Earth is absent, and the suite does not attempt an astronomical tour in orbital order. Its changing orchestral colors and large instrumental forces help give each movement an individual identity.
Inspiration and creative background
Holst identified astrology and the traditional characters of the planets as the starting point for the suite.
The Planets - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
New facsimile edition of Holst's 'The Planets' published by Faber Music | Faber Music
Work identity, dated event and scoring or version context for this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
A listening guide
Compare the persistent pulse of Mars with the suspended, receding atmosphere of Neptune.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Large orchestra and wordless female chorus in Neptune
Composition: 1914-1917
This range follows the manuscript publisher and includes preparation of the orchestral score; some accounts date the principal composition to 1916.
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Date, title and version notes
The principal composition is sometimes dated through 1916; the manuscript publisher and cited orchestra give 1914-1917 for the score's preparation.
The Planets - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
New facsimile edition of Holst's 'The Planets' published by Faber Music | Faber Music
Work identity, dated event and scoring or version context for this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
The Planets - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
New facsimile edition of Holst's 'The Planets' published by Faber Music | Faber Music
Work identity, dated event and scoring or version context for this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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