Mercury
Introducing KS2 students to Mercury, Gustav Holst’s quick‑silver, darting messenger from The Planets, with free classroom resources including a 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 Mercury you’ll find:
A classroom activity video showing students how to pass Mercury’s quick‑fire motifs around the ensemble, capturing the energy and excitement of the winged messenger
A video of London Symphony Orchestra performing Mercury 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
Lesson with Rachel Leach
Run-time: 5 minutes
Discover Holst’s Mercury, the Winged Messenger through playful motifs, rhythmic energy, and creative music-making inspired by a flying creature.
Listening focus:
- Listen for the six-note motif
- Notice the contrast between flying and landing
- Pay attention to the rhythm patterns
London Symphony Orchestra Performance
Run-time: 4 minutes
Take a listen to Holst’s Mercury
Recorded at the Barbican on 12 September 2024
Lesson Plan
Download the Mercury Teacher Pack
Fun and Games!
Holst’s Venus – Wordsearch
Explore the Series
Content written and presented by Rachel Leach for LSO Discovery 2026.
