This is a corrected reissue, in Clarendon Paperbacks format with a new cover, of Michael Kennedy’s classic study of William Walton’s life and works. In this biography by one of England’s foremost writers on music, Walton’s personality emerges in all its complexity and self-contradiction. Michael Kennedy portrays a creative artist completely committed to his art yet plagued by misgiving and doubts, prey to insecurity and frustration, vulnerable to criticism, and jealous of the achievement of others. At the same time he was witty and generous, bore no grudges, and enjoyed the loyalty of a host of friends.
Appointed his biographer by the composer himself, Kennedy has had access to correspondence with many of the friends and colleagues who were important in Walton’s life, among them Siegfried Sassoon, Benjamin Britten, Malcolm Arnold, and Andre Previn. His compassionate and perceptive biography will be welcomed by all devotees of Walton and his music.