Holst: Mars - National Symphony Orchestra | The Kennedy Center

The National Symphony Orchestra performs Holst's "Mars," conducted by Michael Butterman. Travel back to 1913 when English composer Gustav Holst (pronounced HOLE-st) looked up in the sky and was inspired to write seven “mood pieces” collectively called The Planets. Each piece represented a different planet known at that time. Now, Holst wasn’t the first person to look at the night sky with wonder. In ancient times, people stared at the heavens and believed in the movements of “celestial bodies” and their influence over people on Earth. In fact, Holst based his piece about Mars more on the Roman god of war of the same name, than on any characteristics of the “red planet.” When you listen to Holst’s “Mars, the Bringer of War,” you’ll hear those trumpet calls, military rhythms, and clashing harmonies marching us straight into battle. Part of "Reach for the Moon: John F. Kennedy's Vision and Courage, a Young People's Concert." Hosted by Michael Butterman and Marisa Regni. In the Kennedy Center Concert Hall, October 18, 2016. Help Inspire Others: The Kennedy Center building may be temporarily closed, but its arts and education programming is still alive! Your gift today will provide vital support for the arts during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Please consider donating today at https://www.kennedy-center.org/Suppor.... Subscribe to The Kennedy Center! http://bit.ly/2gNFrtb #holst #mars #nso