Gustav Holst - Mars Page

Polytonality becomes Atonality: Gustav Holst, Mars - Repertoire

: The piece is built on a relentless, driving rhythm in 5/4 time. This unusual meter creates an unsettling, "un-marchable" feel that defies the traditional 4/4 military march. Gustav Holst - Mars

"Mars, the Bringer of War" is the aggressive opening movement of Gustav Holst's orchestral suite The Planets , Op. 32. Composed between 1914 and 1916, it remains one of the most powerful and influential pieces of classical music ever written. Key Characteristics & Musical Structure Polytonality becomes Atonality: Gustav Holst

: The piece is famous for its clashing keys and bitonality (playing in two keys at once), which results in a sense of sheer terror and violence. Inspiration & Origins Gustav Holst - Mars