Gustavus Theodore von Holst

            Gustavus Theodor von Holst was born on September 21st, 1874 at 4 Pittville Terrace, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, in western England to parents Clara and Adolph von Holst. He is still considered one of the greatest composers of all times. A classical composer, wrote a well-known musical piece "The Planets". But he had some rough bumps in writing his pieces; people did not always accept it or was denied constantly. His wife was always there for him though, and always has encouraged him and he had many different inspirations into writing the music.
             Holst was sent to Cheltenham Grammar School in 1887-1891 and was forced to take long music lessons; he did enjoy the piano, despite having neuritis in his hands. He was somewhat not a "healthy" child while growing up, having a weak chest from asthma which he had to rest going up steps and weak eyes that need spectacles. Adolf and his wife failed to notice that and Adolf was determined to make Gustav a good pianist. He had his first job as an organist at Wyck Rissington Church in 1882. Meanwhile, Gustav tried to hand his composition, but failed to receive scholarships to the Royal College of Music and various other colleges in London. Later on, he got an official job as an organist and choirmaster at the Choral Society, Bourbon on the Water. Being inspired by Arthur Sullivan, Holst composed a two-act operetta, called Lansdown Castle in 1892. Gustav's father was impressed and borrowed some money to send Gustav to Royal College of Music. While at college, he had a chance to study composition with Charles Stanford, but always disagreed with him, although he was grateful that Charles taught him to be his own critic. .
             Gustav could play the piano, but as his neuritis in his hands worsen, he took up trombone, this allowed him to play in orchestras and earn an income. Since he didn't always earn enough money, he played his trombone on the pier for cash at Brighton during the summer.