Walton 1

Radio 3 is definitely controlling my choices far too much. But I couldn't resist listening to this performance of one of my favourite symphonies and, arguably, the finest written by an Englishman. (Vaughan Williams may be our greatest symphonist but I really do think it is possible that Walton's First is a stunning masterpiece).
It obviously owes a lot to Sibelius, especially the Finnish composer's Fifth, from the broad landscape and wonderful theme of the opening to the multiple chords with which it ends. 
Interesting that the performance I heard was by a Russian conductor - Semyon Bychkov. I don't think I could live with this performance. It didn't quite bring off the first movement, but the Scherzo (Presto con malizia - I love that description; very fast with malice) and the difficult finale were performed very well.
This was a difficult work for Walton. A relationship ended during its composition and he didn't produce the final movement for the deadline, but for me it is a work I cannot hear too often. My only regret is Walton managed only one other symphony after this.