Ralph Vaughan Williams on Gustav Holst:  A Great Life Remembered

For the Performers of Morley Festival, we present a special reading of a Ralph Vaughan Williams lecture written in 1953 about his the life and work of his close friend, Gustav Holst, the celebrated composer and former Director of Music at Morley from 1907 to 1924.

The lecture will be read by Morley's longstanding acting tutor Dominic Grant, accompanied by short performances of works by Holst and Vaughan Williams.

In 1919, Holst published The Planets, to huge public acclaim. Holst established the great tradition of teaching and performing classical music at Morley which continues to this day, while Holst's work regularly features on the programming of the BBC Proms.

A memorable lecture revived

In spring 1953, the year of The Queen's coronation, Morley College hosted a new public lecture series entitled "Great Men and Women Remembered." The showcase lecture was given by the famous English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams - who spoke in depth about the life and work of Gustav Holst as both composer and educator. William's original typed lecture manuscript from Morley's archives offers an insightful and poetic portrait of Holst's character, musical and educational talents.

Following on from the lecture reading, Elaine Andrews, Morley's Learning Resources Manager, will lead a discussion about Holst and Morley's tradition of classical music. Don't miss this fascinating evening, reaching back into Morley's musical past - a night to remember!

Performance by: Dominic Grant

Music performed: by Dimitris

Discussion with: Elaine Andrews

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Host or Publisher Morley College London