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Bernard Walton (2)

British classical clarinetist. Born in 1917 - Died 3 June 1972. He studied at [l290263]. In 1937, he was appointed Principal Clarinet of the [a=London Philharmonic Orchestra]. After the outbreak of Second World War, he and his brothers enlisted in [a=The Band Of The Irish Guards]. After the war, he served as principal clarinetist of the [a=Philharmonia Orchestra] from 1953 to 1964. When [a=Walter Legge] attempted to disband the orchestra in 1964, Walton tried unsuccessfully to dissuade him, and when that failed Walton took the lead in establishing the [a=New Philharmonia Orchestra] as a self-governing body. He served as its first chairman. After leaving the orchestra in April 1966, Walton rejoined the London Philharmonic Orchestra, and devoted more time to chamber music, forming [a=The Music Group Of London]. He also served as Principal Clarinet for the [a=London Symphony Orchestra] (1967-1968). In addition to his work as a performer, Walton was Professor of Clarinet at the Royal College of Music from 1954 until his death. Brother of [a=Richard Walton] and [a=John Walton (6)].