Robin Newton:

>Surely the point in relation to The Planets is that it is musically
>complete - not that it is arguably incomplete (astrologically, or
>astronomically).  Adding Pluto is simply a non-musical excuse for an
>interesting idea: that of adding to an extant work.

Agreed.  Frankly, I dread its appearance.  I'd be happier if it were to
be called simply "Pluto, After Holst's 'The Planets,'" (double meaning
intended) and played by itself as a separate work.  If it proved musically
successful, it could be recorded, and those who cared to do so could then
play the two works in succession.

I have heard a number of completions, and the only one I consider
essential, and that for dramatic reasons, is Turandot.  (I haven't heard
the Elgar/Payne symphony yet.) The Planets is a major work--and a long one.
I've heard it live only once--in London--and I hope that if I ever have a
chance to hear it live again it will be the way Holst left it.

Jim Tobin