Opera - Troilus and Cressida

Released as a part of the Richard Hickox Legacy series, this essential recording of Walton’s Troilus and Cressida is widely recognised as the finest available. Edward Greenfield wrote in Gramophone that ‘[e]ven among Chandos’ many bold achievements over the years, this magnificent set of Troilus and Cressida stands out... Hickox relishes the romanticism to the full. His expressive warmth is matched by his understanding of Walton’s fiery side, with magnificent performances form the entire cast’.

Troilus and Cressida was William Walton’s first opera, commissioned by the BBC in 1947, not long after the enormous success of Benjamin Britten’s Peter Grimes. Composing the opera proved a difficult task for Walton and only after seven years, in 1954, did the premiere take place, in Covent Garden. For a revival in 1976, Walton removed about thirty minutes of music and adapted the soprano part of Cressida to bring it within the range of the mezzo-soprano Dame Janet Baker. The version recorded here follows Walton’s more concise, shortened score whilst returning the part of Cressida to its original soprano register.

Based on Chaucer’s classic love-tale Troilus and Criseyde, the opera represents Walton’s desire to engage with traditional operatic themes. Walton wanted to write a romantic, ‘Pucciniesque’ opera and the rich scoring and many memorable melodies certainly invite comparison.