Gustav Holst was an English composer, trombonist, and teacher best known for his orchestral suite The Planets. Born in Cheltenham, England, Holst was heavily influenced by English folk songs, Hindu literature, and astrology, all of which found their way into his distinctive musical language. The Planets—written between 1914 and 1917—is a groundbreaking seven-movement suite that musically portrays the astrological characteristics of each planet, and it remains one of the most influential orchestral works of the 20th century. Beyond that, Holst composed operas, choral works, and band music, often exploring spirituality and mysticism. As a teacher at St. Paul's Girls' School and Morley College, he was deeply committed to music education and community engagement. His music reflects a restless intellect and a deep desire to connect music to larger human and cosmic ideas.

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