Façade

work by Walton

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June 26, 2026

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The term "facade" refers to the front of a building or any face of a building with special architectural treatment. It can also mean a false, superficial, or artificial appearance or effect.1

Sir William Walton (1902–1983) was an English composer known for his orchestral music. He was considered one of England's most important composers between the eras of Vaughan Williams and Benjamin Britten. Walton composed Façade in 1923, which is a collection of pieces for chamber ensemble designed to accompany Edith Sitwell's poetry recitation. This work, along with others like Portsmouth Point, established his reputation as an orchestral composer. Walton also composed film scores and vocal music, including the oratorio Belshazzar's Feast.2

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Sir William Walton
During this period he composed Façade (1923)—a set of pieces for chamber ensemble, to accompany the Sitwells’ sister Edith in a recitation of her poetry—as well as Sinfonia Concertante for piano and orchestra (1928; revised 1943) and Portsmouth Point (1926), which established his reputation as an orchestral composer.
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During this period he composed Façade (1923)—a set of pieces for chamber ensemble, to accompany the Sitwells’ sister Edith in a recitation of her poetry—as well as Sinfonia Concertante for piano and orchestra (1928; revised 1943) and Portsmouth Point (1926), which established his reputation as an orchestral composer.
Read More