Walton: The Complete Façades

Album Description

Dive into the vibrant and playful world of William Walton's "The Complete Façades," a captivating collection of musical entertainments that showcase the composer's wit and ingenuity. Originally conceived in the Roaring Twenties, these pieces were crafted in collaboration with the poet Edith Sitwell, resulting in a unique blend of music and spoken word that is as entertaining as it is innovative.

This album, released on Naxos, presents the complete Façades in all their glory, featuring a total of 34 tracks that span two main sections, "Façade 1, An Entertainment" and "Façade 2, A Further Entertainment," along with additional numbers. Each track is a miniature masterpiece, ranging from lively dances like the "Tango-Pasodoblé" and "Polka" to more contemplative pieces such as "Lullaby for Jumbo" and "By the Lake."

The album boasts a stellar cast of performers, including JoAnn Falletta, Kevin Deas, Hila Plitmann, and Fred Child, who bring these charming compositions to life with skill and enthusiasm. With a duration of just over 53 minutes, "The Complete Façades" is a delightful journey through the musical landscape of the early 20th century, offering a glimpse into the creative partnership between Walton and Sitwell.

Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album is sure to captivate and entertain. The playful spirit of the Roaring Twenties is alive and well in these pieces, making "The Complete Façades" a delightful addition to any music lover's collection.

September 9, 2022

2022 Naxos

About William Walton

Sir William Turner Walton, one of the most significant British composers of the 20th century, crafted a diverse and influential body of work that spans various classical genres. Born in Oldham, Lancashire, in 1902, Walton's musical journey began under the influence of his choirmaster father and singing-teacher mother, leading him to become a chorister at Christ Church Cathedral. Throughout his sixty-year career, Walton composed works that range from jazzy and modern orchestral pieces to operas and film scores, earning him a place among the greats like Elgar, Vaughan Williams, and Britten.

Walton's collaborations were as notable as his compositions. He worked with the poet Edith Sitwell on the iconic "Façade," a piece that blends spoken word with music, and his encounters with composers like Stravinsky and Schoenberg further enriched his artistic vision. His best-known works, such as the cantata "Belshazzar's Feast," the Viola Concerto, the First Symphony, and the coronation marches "Crown Imperial" and "Orb and Sceptre," showcase his versatility and mastery of composition.

Despite being largely self-taught, Walton's contributions to British musical heritage are immense. His music, characterized by its emotional depth and technical brilliance, continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Walton's legacy is preserved and promoted by the Walton Trust, ensuring that his orchestral, choral, chamber, and vocal works remain a vital part of the classical music landscape.