William Walton: The Man and the Music

In his ceremonial works like “Crown Imperial”, the composer Sir William Walton is often regarded as the heir to Elgar. Yet he is perhaps best known for his startling avant-garde “Façade” suite, written at 21. We trace Walton’s journey from this radical debut through to the neo-romantic orchestral works, the liturgical settings and the ground-breaking oratorio “Belshazzar’s Feast”. We also examine his works for film, and particularly his celebrated partnership with Lawrence Olivier on masterpieces of cinema such as “Henry V.” Retiring, insecure, unsure of his legacy, yet witty and generous, Walton worked slowly but always to high standard. We assess his complex personality, and the claim to him ultimately emerging as the grand Old Man of English Music.

To book a place on this course ring 0300 303 3464 or go to the central WEA website by clicking here.