St. Paul's Suite for String Orchestra, Op. 29/2; H118 [String Orchestra]

Gustav Holst served as the Director of Music at St. Paul's Girls' School in Hammersmith, London between 1905 and 1934. Originally titled Suite in C, Holst's St. Paul's Suite was one of many pieces the composer wrote for his students. A beautiful and powerful symphonic treatment of English folk tunes, St. Paul's Suite consists of four movements: an energetic Jig, Ostinato, based upon a simple theme, Intermezzo, a rhythmic dance and the Finale, wherein Holst masterfully weaves together the 16th century English dance tune, The Dargason, with the traditional melody, Greensleeves. Although the piece was completed in 1913, it was not published until 1922, due to revisions.