Dive into the whimsical and captivating world of William Walton's "Facade," a unique blend of classical music and spoken word that transcends traditional boundaries. Released in January 2000 under the Maestoso label, this 36-minute album is a reimagining of Walton's original 1922 composition, which sets the surreal and often humorous poems of Edith Sitwell to music. The collaboration between Walton's evocative scores and Sitwell's playful, imaginative verses creates a delightful and engaging experience that is as entertaining as it is artistically rich.
Conducted by the esteemed JoAnn Falletta and performed by the Virginia Arts Festival Chamber Players, this album brings together a small ensemble of seven musicians and two actors to breathe new life into Walton's innovative work. The tracklist is a journey through various musical styles, from the lively "Hornpipe" and "Tango-Pasodoble" to the soothing "Lullaby For Jumbo" and the energetic "Tarantella." Each piece is a testament to Walton's compositional genius and his ability to blend humor, wit, and musical virtuosity.
"Facade" is not just a collection of songs but a theatrical experience that combines music and poetry in a way that is both innovative and timeless. The album's unique format, with spoken verses interspersed between musical interludes, offers a fresh perspective on classical music, making it accessible and enjoyable for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you're a fan of Walton's work or simply curious about the intersection of music and poetry, "Facade" is an album that promises to captivate and inspire.
Tracks
Facade: Fanfare - HornpipeWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Sir Peter Pears, Anthony Collins, Dame Edith Sitwell
Facade: En familleWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Dame Edith Sitwell, Anthony Collins, Sir Peter Pears
Facade: Mariner ManWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Anthony Collins, Sir Peter Pears, Dame Edith Sitwell
Facade: Long Steel GrassWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Dame Edith Sitwell, Sir Peter Pears, Anthony Collins
Facade: Through Gilded TrellisesWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Dame Edith Sitwell, Anthony Collins, Sir Peter Pears
Facade: Tango-PasodobleWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Sir Peter Pears, Anthony Collins, Dame Edith Sitwell
Facade: Lullaby For JumboWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Dame Edith Sitwell, Sir Peter Pears, Anthony Collins
Facade: Black Mrs. BehemothWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Anthony Collins, Sir Peter Pears, Dame Edith Sitwell
Facade: TarantellaWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Dame Edith Sitwell, Sir Peter Pears, Anthony Collins
Facade: A Man From A Far CountreeWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Dame Edith Sitwell, Sir Peter Pears, Anthony Collins
Facade: By The LakeWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Dame Edith Sitwell, Sir Peter Pears, Anthony Collins
Facade: Country DanceWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Anthony Collins, Sir Peter Pears, Dame Edith Sitwell
Facade: PolkaWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Dame Edith Sitwell, Anthony Collins, Sir Peter Pears
Facade: Four In The MorningWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Sir Peter Pears, Anthony Collins, Dame Edith Sitwell
Facade: Something Lies Beyond The SceneWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Dame Edith Sitwell, Anthony Collins, Sir Peter Pears
Facade: ValseWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Anthony Collins, Dame Edith Sitwell, Sir Peter Pears
Facade: Jodelling SongWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Sir Peter Pears, Anthony Collins, Dame Edith Sitwell
Facade: Scotch RhapsodyWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Dame Edith Sitwell, Anthony Collins, Sir Peter Pears
Facade: Popular SongWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Anthony Collins, Dame Edith Sitwell, Sir Peter Pears
Facade: Old Sir Faulk Fox-TrotWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Anthony Collins, Sir Peter Pears, Dame Edith Sitwell
Facade: Sir BeelzebubWilliam Walton, The English Opera Group Ensemble, Anthony Collins, Dame Edith Sitwell, Sir Peter Pears
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