Written at the peak of the early 20th century period of intense folk music interest in Great Britain, A Somerset Rhapsody draws upon tunes collected by Cecil Sharp (to whom the work is dedicated) in his travels throughout that area of exceptional natural beauty in Southwest England. Holst chose three of these folk songs that are seamlessly presented in this arrangement: the pensive "Sheep Shearing Song," the bold "High Germany," and the doleful "The True Lover's Farewell." Penned in 1906, A Somerset Rhapsody displays definite hints of the iconic First Suite in E-flat (1909) and Second Suite in F (1911) for military band soon to come. This arrangemment by Douglas E. Wagner, is an excellent way to introduce your students to the music of Holst. (2:50)
