Walton: Coronation Te Deum; Missa brevis; A Litany & Other Choral Works

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of sacred choral music with William Walton's "Walton: Coronation Te Deum; Missa brevis; A Litany & Other Choral Works." This 2002 release by Hyperion is a masterful collection of Walton's choral compositions, spanning over six decades of his illustrious career. The album features the renowned Polyphony choir, conducted by Stephen Layton, delivering a performance that captures the essence of Walton's profound and evocative works.

The album opens with the majestic "Coronation Te Deum," a piece originally composed for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. This is followed by the serene and contemplative "Missa brevis," a concise yet powerful setting of the Latin Mass. The "Chichester Service," including the "Magnificat" and "Nunc dimittis," showcases Walton's ability to blend traditional liturgical elements with his unique musical voice. The album also includes the hauntingly beautiful "A Litany," presented in three distinct versions, each offering a different emotional and musical nuance.

Other highlights include the jubilant "Jubilate," the introspective "Where Does the Uttered Music Go?," and the dramatic "King Herod and the Cock." The album concludes with the solemn and reflective "Antiphon," leaving a lasting impression on the listener.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Walton's sacred choral works. It is a testament to his enduring legacy and his ability to create music that resonates with both the spiritual and the human experience. Whether you are a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Sir William Turner Walton, one of the most significant British composers of the 20th century, crafted a diverse and influential body of work that spans various classical genres. Born in Oldham, Lancashire, in 1902, Walton's musical journey began under the influence of his choirmaster father and singing-teacher mother, leading him to become a chorister at Christ Church Cathedral. Throughout his sixty-year career, Walton composed works that range from jazzy and modern orchestral pieces to operas and film scores, earning him a place among the greats like Elgar, Vaughan Williams, and Britten.

Walton's collaborations were as notable as his compositions. He worked with the poet Edith Sitwell on the iconic "Façade," a piece that blends spoken word with music, and his encounters with composers like Stravinsky and Schoenberg further enriched his artistic vision. His best-known works, such as the cantata "Belshazzar's Feast," the Viola Concerto, the First Symphony, and the coronation marches "Crown Imperial" and "Orb and Sceptre," showcase his versatility and mastery of composition.

Despite being largely self-taught, Walton's contributions to British musical heritage are immense. His music, characterized by its emotional depth and technical brilliance, continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Walton's legacy is preserved and promoted by the Walton Trust, ensuring that his orchestral, choral, chamber, and vocal works remain a vital part of the classical music landscape.

Walton: Coronation Te Deum; Missa brevis; A Litany & Other Choral Works

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