Composer

:

Gustav Holst

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Tone Poem

Compose Date

:

1927

Average_duration

:

14:00

Egdon Heath, Op. 47, H. 172 is a tone poem composed by Gustav Holst in 1927. It was inspired by Thomas Hardy's novel, The Return of the Native, which is set on the bleak and desolate Egdon Heath in Dorset, England. The piece was premiered on 10 November 1927 by the Bournemouth Municipal Orchestra, conducted by Dan Godfrey. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which represents a different aspect of the heath. The first movement, "The Heath," is a slow and somber introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the piece. It features a haunting melody played by the English horn, which is then taken up by the strings. The movement builds to a climax before fading away into the second movement. The second movement, "The Dance," is a lively and rhythmic scherzo that represents the pagan rituals that take place on the heath. It features a driving rhythm played by the timpani and percussion, as well as a lively folk-like melody played by the woodwinds. The movement builds to a frenzied climax before giving way to the final movement. The third movement, "The Sunset," is a slow and peaceful conclusion that represents the end of the day on the heath. It features a beautiful melody played by the strings, which is then taken up by the English horn. The movement builds to a climax before fading away into a peaceful and serene ending. Overall, Egdon Heath is a haunting and atmospheric piece that captures the bleak and desolate beauty of the Dorset heath. It is characterized by its use of folk-like melodies, driving rhythms, and lush orchestration. It is considered one of Holst's most mature and accomplished works, and is a testament to his skill as a composer.

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