Gustav Holst Popular Song Rankings [2026]

Two Fragments of Folk Songs, Op. 46-2, H.166: No. 1 “O I Hae Seen the Roses Blaw”Gustav Holst15rank/position

Folk Song Fragments, Op. 46 No. 2, H. 166: No. 1, O I Hae Seen the Roses Blaw

The first piece, “O I Hae Seen the Roses Blaw,” from Gustav Holst’s late-period piano work Two Folk Tune Sketches, Op.

46 No.

2, H.166, is characterized by a spare and rigorous style rooted in his unique musical outlook.

In this work, melodies based on English folk tunes unfold with a deep affection for nature and culture.

From the main theme shines an expressive quality rich in emotion, evoking vivid landscapes.

Holst’s music is recommended not only for classical music enthusiasts but also for those who love British tradition and nature.

Why not experience the scent of Britain through this performance?

Two Folk Song Fragments, Op. 46-2, H. 166: No. 2 “The Shoemaker”Gustav Holst16rank/position

Gustav Holst: The Shoemakker | James Willshire, piano

The second piece, “The Shoemakker,” from Two Fragments of Folk Tunes composed by the British classical composer Gustav Holst, is a piano work that skillfully incorporates folk-song melodies.

Its sprightly rhythm and lively character evoke the rhythmic handiwork of a cobbler at work.

Holst was inspired by English folk music and left many such works; this piece is one of them.

It offers a tasteful reinterpretation of the simple beauty of folk songs from Holst’s unique perspective.

It’s a work I highly recommend to anyone looking to become more familiar with classical piano.

In The Bleak MidwinterGustav Holst17rank/position

In the Bleak Midwinter – solo piano – Bradley Mariska – Christmas music

This is a piano solo piece based on a Christmas carol inspired by the poem of British poet Christina Rossetti.

It has even been called the finest Christmas carol, and its somewhat wistful, aching melody brings a feeling of cleansing to the heart.

Somerset Rhapsody, Op. 21 No. 2Gustav Holst18rank/position

Gustav Holst, A Somerset Rhapsody

A quintessential work by early 20th-century composer Gustav Holst, Orchestral Rhapsody “A Somerset Rhapsody, Op.

21 No.

2.” This early masterpiece by Holst richly reflects the influence of English folk songs.

It vividly depicts the beautiful landscapes of Somerset, England, and the deep emotions of the people who live there, evoking scenes of old, idyllic England.

Beginning with the gentle timbre of the oboe, the way various instruments intertwine as the piece builds is nothing short of breathtaking.

Among Holst’s works, this particularly British-sounding piece offers a nostalgic warmth—please take your time and savor this gem.

Toccata in C major, H.153Gustav Holst19rank/position

Gustav Holst – Toccata in C Major, H. 153

Toccata in C major, H.153 is a piano piece composed in 1924 by the British composer Gustav Holst.

Based on a Northumberland folk song, it is also known as a dedication to his close friend Adine O’Neill and her students.

Energetic and rhythmic, the piece highlights Holst’s distinctive sense of harmony and handling of melody, allowing listeners to appreciate both his technical prowess and emotional expression.

Although Holst is best known for large-scale orchestral works, this Toccata offers a glimpse of his more intimate side—a challenging yet captivating work for pianists.

“Jupiter,” from The Planets, Op. 32, Suite for Large OrchestraGustav Holst20rank/position

Jupiter (Jove) — From the Suite “The Planets”: Jupiter [Piano] For Beginners

Even if you don’t recognize it by the title alone, you’ll probably think, “Oh, that piece!” once you actually hear it.

Among the movements of The Planets, a suite by the British composer Gustav Holst, Jupiter is the most famous; its middle section in particular is very well known and is cherished in the UK as the patriotic song I Vow to Thee, My Country.

In fact, it’s also the original tune for Ayaka Hirahara’s debut and smash-hit song, Jupiter.

Its grand scale and the beauty of its all-embracing melodic line lose nothing when played as a solo piano piece.

There aren’t any tricky melodies, and the relaxed tempo makes it easy to play; however, a flat, matter-of-fact performance won’t bring out the piece’s charm or atmosphere.

So try approaching it with the mindset of expressing your own universe in your performance!

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Japanese Suite, Op. 33Gustav Holst21rank/position

Gustav Holst – Japanese Suite (1915)

Gustav Holst, the British composer active in the early 20th century, is best known for The Planets, but his Japanese Suite, Op.

33, composed in 1915, is another work not to be missed.

Commissioned by the Japanese dancer Michio Ito, the suite weaves music based on traditional Japanese melodies through Holst’s distinctive interpretation.

From the Prelude through four dances and an Interlude, it skillfully depicts Japanese landscapes and scenes.

The finale of “Dance of the Wolves” is particularly stunning, making it a recommended piece not only for classical music enthusiasts but also for those interested in cross-cultural works.