Dive into the rich tapestry of William Walton's musical genius with "Walton Conducts Walton," a captivating album released in 2012 on the Heritage Records label. This classical masterpiece spans a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Walton's most celebrated works.
The album kicks off with the monumental "Belshazzar's Feast," a cantata for mixed choirs, baritone solo, and orchestra. This piece, divided into several movements, showcases Walton's ability to blend dramatic storytelling with profound musical expression. From the evocative "Thus spake Isiah" to the triumphant "Then sing aloud to God," each section is a testament to Walton's compositional prowess.
Beyond "Belshazzar's Feast," the album features a variety of Walton's orchestral and choral works. The "Partita for Orchestra" includes the lively "Toccata - Brioso," the serene "Pastorale siciliana - Andante comodo," and the playful "Giga Burlesca - Allegro gioviale." These pieces highlight Walton's versatility and his mastery of orchestral textures.
The album also includes notable works such as the "Johannesburg Festival Overture," the nautical-themed "Portsmouth Point," the regal "Orb and Sceptre," and the majestic "Crown Imperial." Each composition offers a unique perspective on Walton's artistic vision, from festive and celebratory to introspective and reflective.
"Walton Conducts Walton" is not just a collection of songs but a testament to William Walton's enduring legacy in the world of classical music. Whether you are a seasoned fan or a newcomer to Walton's work, this album provides a rich and rewarding listening experience.
2011 Heritage Records2011 Heritage Records
Tracks
Belshazzar's Feast, Cantata for Mixed Choirs, Baritone Solo and Orchestra: Thus spake IsiahWilliam Walton, Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Brass Bands, The Huddersfield Choir, Dennis Noble
Belshazzar's Feast, Cantata for Mixed Choirs, Baritone Solo and Orchestra: If I forget thee, O JerusalemWilliam Walton, Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Brass Bands, The Huddersfield Choir, Dennis Noble
Belshazzar's Feast, Cantata for Mixed Choirs, Baritone Solo and Orchestra: Babylon was a great cityWilliam Walton, Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Brass Bands, The Huddersfield Choir, Dennis Noble
Belshazzar's Feast, Cantata for Mixed Choirs, Baritone Solo and Orchestra: Praise yeWilliam Walton, Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Brass Bands, The Huddersfield Choir, Dennis Noble
Belshazzar's Feast, Cantata for Mixed Choirs, Baritone Solo and Orchestra: Thus in BabylonWilliam Walton, Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Brass Bands, The Huddersfield Choir, Dennis Noble
Belshazzar's Feast, Cantata for Mixed Choirs, Baritone Solo and Orchestra: And in that same hourWilliam Walton, Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Brass Bands, The Huddersfield Choir, Dennis Noble
Belshazzar's Feast, Cantata for Mixed Choirs, Baritone Solo and Orchestra: Then sing aloud to GodWilliam Walton, Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Brass Bands, The Huddersfield Choir, Dennis Noble
Belshazzar's Feast, Cantata for Mixed Choirs, Baritone Solo and Orchestra: The trumpeters and pipers are silentWilliam Walton, Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Brass Bands, The Huddersfield Choir, Dennis Noble
Belshazzar's Feast, Cantata for Mixed Choirs, Baritone Solo and Orchestra: Then sing aloud to God - repriseWilliam Walton, Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Brass Bands, The Huddersfield Choir, Dennis Noble
Partita for Orchestra: Toccata - BriosoWilliam Walton, Philharmonia Orchestra
Partita for Orchestra: Pastorale siciliana - Andante comodoWilliam Walton, Philharmonia Orchestra
Partita for Orchestra: Giga Burlesca - Allegro giovialeWilliam Walton, Philharmonia Orchestra
Johannesburg Festival Overture: Johannesburg Festival OvertureWilliam Walton, Philharmonia Orchestra