City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Revives Walton’s Symphonies
The symphonies of William Walton, a pivotal figure in 20th-century English music, are often viewed as significant yet underappreciated works. Walton’s unique journey—from early avant-garde experiments to later success in film scoring and a conservative twilight—parallels his two symphonies’ evolution. The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Kazuki Yamada, is set to shine a spotlight on these masterpieces with a compelling new recording.
Kazuki Yamada’s rapid ascent in the music world began with his co-founding of an orchestra during his student days in Tokyo. This initiative, combined with success in conducting competitions, led to his European debut in 2010. After guest-conducting the CBSO in 2012 and serving as principal guest conductor from 2018, Yamada became chief conductor in 2023. This album marks their inaugural collaboration on a major label.
Walton commenced his First Symphony in 1932, following the acclaim of his Viola Concerto and “Belshazzar’s Feast.” However, progress was slow—possibly hindered by personal setbacks and a new foray into film scoring. Despite delays, conductor Hamilton Harty premiered the first three movements in 1934, with Walton completing the symphony in 1935.
Like Beethoven’s Fifth, Walton’s First Symphony traces an emotional journey from turbulence to triumph. Yamada’s interpretation highlights the third movement’s melancholy while tempering the second’s malice. His expansive reading of the first movement reveals its Sibelius-like qualities.
Although Walton’s First Symphony was celebrated at its premiere, he turned to film music during WWII instead of continuing a symphonic cycle. Post-war, Walton was tasked with composing a symphony for Liverpool’s 750th anniversary, but the piece debuted three years late in 1960. Initially met with indifference, the Second Symphony gained recognition when George Szell championed it, leading to its rededication to him in 1970.
Walton’s Second Symphony contrasts its predecessor with a more concise form and hints of jazz. Its celebratory nature is underscored in the finale, which transitions from a baroque passacaglia to a lively theme-and-variations ending in a fugue.
The album opens with “Orb and Sceptre,” Walton’s lesser-known coronation march for Queen Elizabeth II, complementing his “Crown Imperial” for George VI. The inclusion of “Orb and Sceptre” adds a touch of royal grandeur to the collection.
Captured live at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall in December 2024, the recordings showcase the CBSO’s prowess and Yamada’s interpretive skill. This album is available on the Deutsche Grammophon label, offering a fresh take on Walton’s symphonic legacy.
