Gustav Holst - Ode to Death
for Choir and Organ

Gustav Holst (1874-1934) composed his Ode to Death in the summer of 1919, in memory of friends killed in the First World War. The music is characterised by quiet resignation, full of space and luminous beauty. The orchestration is often transparent, restrained and undemonstrative, emblematic of Holst's mature style. This lends itself well to an organ arrangement, playing very much to the instrument's strengths. Holst's astonishing sustained harmonies and static atmosphere are perfectly attained on the organ, allowing wider performances of this important choral work.

Available to purchase from Aria Editions here

Recording available on SOMM Records by Chapel Choir of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, William Vann (conductor), James Orford (organ)

Listen to the arrangement here: