Cheltenham, Liminality, and Gustav Holst

What is it about?

This article explores formative influences present in the town of Cheltenham where the composer Gustav Holst was born and grew up. These include the presence of retirees from the empire, evangelical churches, Theosophy, and the music making occurring in the town.

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Why is it important?

The influences discussed in this article (empire, religion, Victorian music making) remake our understanding of the composer Gustav Holst, connecting his later career and idiosyncrasies more closely to his formative years.