Mars
Introducing KS2 students to Mars, Gustav Holst’s dramatic opening to The Planets orchestral suite, with free classroom resources including video activity, lesson plans and a quiz.
This is part of a Key Stage two series on Gustav Holst’s seven-part suite. If you’re new to Holst, read the Introduction first.
Quick Overview
In this resource on the first movement, Mars, you’ll find:
A classroom activity video showing students how to recreate Mars’ layered rhythmic patterns, conveying character and emotion as an ensemble.
A video of London Symphony Orchestra performing Mars at the Barbican to provide context.
Lesson materials to help you plan.
A quiz and word search to test student knowledge after the activity.
To Get Started
- Suggested teaching duration: 40 minutes
(video activity + quiz) - Key stage: KS2
- What you’ll need:
– Screen (to play video)
– Unpitched percussion instruments
– Tuned percussion (optional)
– Space for movement
Experience Mars: Lesson with Rachel Leach
Run-time: 8 minutes
Explore Holst’s Mars, the Bringer of War through fun rhythm activities, crescendo building, and orchestral techniques that bring this iconic piece to life.
Listening focus:
- Listen for the two quirky rhythms
- How does the orchestra build the crescendo?
- What instruments join in as the music gets louder?
Experience Mars: London Symphony Orchestra Performance
Run-time: 8 minutes
Take a listen to Holst’s Mars
Recorded at the Barbican on 12 September 2024
Lesson Plan
Download the Mars Teacher Pack
Fun and Games!
Holst’s Mars – Wordsearch
Explore the Series
Content written and presented by Rachel Leach for LSO Discovery 2026.
