William Walton
Early Life and Education
William Turner Walton was born on March 29, 1902, in Oldham, Lancashire, England. He was the second of four children in a musical family; his father, Charles Walton, was a singing teacher and choirmaster, while his mother, Louisa, was a contralto singer. Walton's early exposure to music came through his family's involvement in the local church choir and his father's teaching. At the age of ten, Walton was admitted to Christ Church Cathedral School in Oxford as a chorister, where he received a comprehensive musical education. His time at Christ Church was pivotal, as it exposed him to a wide range of choral and instrumental music, laying the foundation for his future career as a composer.
Musical Career Beginnings
Walton's formal education continued at the University of Oxford, although he did not complete a degree. During his time at Oxford, Walton's talent as a composer began to emerge. He was influenced by the works of Igor Stravinsky and Claude Debussy, which were introduced to him by his contemporaries. Walton's early compositions, including the "Piano Quartet in D minor," showcased his ability to blend traditional forms with modern harmonic language. In 1920, Walton left Oxford without a degree but with a growing reputation as a promising young composer.
Breakthrough and Major Works
Walton's breakthrough came with the composition of "Façade," a series of musical pieces set to the poetry of Edith Sitwell. This work, first performed in 1923, was notable for its innovative use of rhythm and orchestration, and it established Walton as a leading figure in British music. The success of "Façade" led to further commissions, and Walton began to compose more ambitious works, including his "Viola Concerto" (1929), which remains one of his most celebrated compositions. The concerto was commissioned by the conductor Sir Thomas Beecham and premiered by the violist Lionel Tertis, although Tertis initially rejected the work, leading to its premiere by Paul Hindemith.
Symphonic and Orchestral Works
Walton's contribution to the symphonic repertoire is significant, with his "Symphony No. 1 in B-flat minor" (1935) being a landmark in 20th-century British music. The symphony, characterized by its intense emotional depth and complex structure, was well-received and solidified Walton's status as a major composer. Walton's orchestral output also includes the "Crown Imperial" march, composed for the coronation of King George VI in 1937, and the "Violin Concerto" (1939), commissioned by the American virtuoso Jascha Heifetz. These works demonstrate Walton's mastery of orchestration and his ability to write music that is both technically challenging and emotionally compelling.
Film Music and Later Career
In addition to his concert works, Walton made significant contributions to film music. His scores for films such as "Henry V" (1944), "Hamlet" (1948), and "Richard III" (1955) are notable for their ability to enhance the dramatic narrative while maintaining musical integrity. Walton's film music is characterized by its rich textures and thematic development, often drawing on his experience with orchestral writing. In his later years, Walton continued to compose, producing works such as "Troilus and Cressida" (1954), an opera that reflects his mature style, and the "Cello Concerto" (1956), which was commissioned by the conductor Mstislav Rostropovich.
Personal Life and Legacy
Walton's personal life was marked by a long-term relationship with the Argentinean-born Susana Gil Passo, whom he married in 1948. The couple settled on the Italian island of Ischia, where Walton spent his later years composing and enjoying a quieter life. Walton's influence on British music is profound, and his works continue to be performed and recorded worldwide. His ability to blend traditional forms with modern elements has made him a pivotal figure in the transition from Romanticism to modernism in British music.