In 2015 we celebrate that Gustav Holst composed “The Planets” a century ago. For his work, Holst was inspired by astrology and mythology. In the program A Garden on Mars the Nederlands Saxofoon Octet will perform four of such planets/gods: Jupiter, Mercury, Saturn, and Mars.
Jonathan Dove has written “Figures in the Garden” by means of an introduction to “Le Nozze di Figaro” by Mozart. The introduction was tailor made for a production of the Glyndebourne Opera House and was performed in the famous garden of the opera hall. Each part of Figures in the Garden is a contemporary version of a musical idea from the opera.
The Planets and Figures in the Garden are marvelous examples of program music, leading the audience through a collection of picturesque images. From a slight summer drizzle in a garden to the mighty planets in our solar system. Dove's perception of Figures in the Garden was always meant as an introduction to a greater work. Not now for Le Nozze de Figaro, but for The Planets, hence A Garden on Mars is a tribute to the British program music as well as a celebration of the 100 year existence of The Planets.