The romantic loner: a conductor’s guide to the choral-orchestral works of Sir William Walton

Sir William Walton (1902-1983) is one of the most celebrated British composers in history, writing prolifically for orchestra, film, ballet, and opera. While Walton penned only twenty choral compositions totaling no more than two hours, the quality is such that he is counted among the choral giants of the twentieth century. Catapulting to fame with the premiere of his orchestral work Façade, Walton’s choral‐orchestral works remain largely unknown. Certainly Belshazzar’s Feast has attained a permanent place in the choral‐orchestral canon, making the case for further study of Walton’s remaining choral‐orchestral works. This dissertation examines the six choral works that were written for orchestral accompaniment with specific consideration to the technicalities and challenges that are present for the conductor in each piece. ❧ The study commences with a biographical outline of the composer, beginning with his youth and tracing his varied career until his death. The first chapter includes biographical information and a brief overview of Walton’s works as an introductory discussion to his music. The second chapter provides a guide for the conductor in the works of Belshazzar’s Feast and In Honour of the City of London. The chapter includes a historical perspective, musical analysis, and conducting considerations for performance on the two works. The third chapter offers further insight into the choral‐orchestral works Coronation Te Deum and Gloria. In‐depth musical analysis, historical background information, and considerations for the conductor are discussed throughout the chapter. The fourth and final chapter focuses on Walton’s The Twelve and his unpublished choral‐orchestral work “The Forsaken Merman.” Again, the discussion centers around historical background, musical analysis and examples as well as specific directions for the conductor. Appendices, including complete choral, vocal, and instrumental works, help to provide a broader context of Walton’s musical output. Six in total, Walton’s choral‐orchestral works are discussed in detail as a significant contribution to the world of classical music.