Walton: The Twelve, Coronation Te Deum & Missa Brevis

William Walton's sublime collection, Walton: The Twelve, Coronation Te Deum & Missa Brevis, is a masterful showcase of the composer's profound impact on the classical music landscape. Released on 14 February 2002 under the esteemed Naxos label, this captivating album spans 1 hour and 7 minutes, taking listeners on a journey through a diverse range of choral and orchestral works.

The album commences with the majestic Coronation Te Deum, expertly arranged by S. Preston and M. Blatchly, setting the tone for a truly regal listening experience. Walton's ingenious compositions, including A Litany: Drop, Drop Slow Tears and the resplendent Magnificat, demonstrate his unwavering dedication to the craft. The beautiful Where Does the Uttered Music Go? and Jubilate Deo further exemplify his unique ability to evoke powerful emotions through music.

The inclusion of arrangements from Henry V, such as Touch Her Soft Lips and Part and the poignant Passacaglia "Death of Falstaff", showcase Walton's remarkable skill in adapting his works for various mediums. The Cantico del Sole and The Twelve add to the album's rich tapestry, while the exquisite Missa Brevis, comprising Kyrie, Sanctus - Benedictus, Agnus Dei, and Gloria, serves as a testament to Walton's mastery of sacred music.

Throughout this remarkable album, William Walton's distinctive voice shines brightly, offering a profound exploration of the classical genre. With its thoughtful curation and exceptional performances, Walton: The Twelve, Coronation Te Deum & Missa Brevis is an indispensable addition to any classical music collection, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of Walton's creations.

Sir William Turner Walton, OM, was a distinguished English composer whose prolific career spanned six decades, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music landscape. Born in Oldham, Lancashire, in 1902, Walton's musical journey began as a chorister at Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford, where he honed his skills and composed his earliest pieces. Throughout his career, Walton's versatility shone through as he composed in various genres, from symphonies and operas to film scores, each piece reflecting his unique voice and innovative spirit. His collaborations with notable figures such as Edith Sitwell and his interactions with composers like Stravinsky and Schoenberg further enriched his musical vocabulary. Walton's most celebrated works, including "Façade," "Belshazzar's Feast," the Viola Concerto, and the coronation marches "Crown Imperial" and "Orb and Sceptre," continue to captivate audiences worldwide. His ability to blend complex symphonic structures with accessible, jazzy elements makes his music enduringly attractive. Walton's legacy as one of England's most important composers between Vaughan Williams and Benjamin Britten is a testament to his enduring influence on British musical heritage.