This edition was prepared by Ian Haslam — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Hymn to Indra
Staff Notation • Secular
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Hymn to Indra by Gustav Holst — Lyrics
Who is he of lofty power, guardian of the Gods?
Who supports the heavens alone?
He, O men is Indra!
When the mountains shake with fear, when the earth is quaking,
who is he that holds all fast?
He, O men is Indra!
When the dragon of drought has seized the clouds
and rain like to kine he gathered them to his cave.
Who was the hero that heard our prayers?
Who was the warrior thunder armed?
He, O men is Indra!
Who rushed to the battlefield, wrathfully?
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About Hymn to Indra
This setting of an English text praising the Hindu deity Indra opens with a powerful declaration of his might. The TTBB voices combine to create a robust sound, depicting Indra as a heroic figure who brings rain and overcomes drought and foes. The music reflects the dramatic nature of the text, building in intensity as it describes Indra's heroic deeds. The composer conjures vivid imagery of shaking mountains, quaking earth, and the struggle against the 'dragon of drought'. The voices articulate the ancient Vedic hymn with strength and conviction, culminating in Indra's triumph and the release of the life-giving waters.
