His Crowning Decade

Donald Macleod looks at possibly William Walton's most successful period - a decade capped by a commission to compose for the coronation ceremony of King George VI.

By the end of the 1920s Walton had become the talk of London's music world, mixing easily with the city's cultural elite. After a variety of strange liaisons, Walton started to display a special fascination for high-born women. Progress on his new symphony was stalling, as was his latest relationship with a German baroness. By the time he had reached the final movement, a new girlfriend was on the scene and his music became much brighter and more festive.

The 1930s saw Walton producing choral works, orchestral pieces and film music of the very highest quality. He was at the height of his powers, and recognised as Britain's pre-eminent composer.