Bernard Walton

British classical clarinetist. Born in 1917 - Died 3 June 1972. He studied at Royal College of Music, London. In 1937, he was appointed Principal Clarinet of The London Philharmonic Orchestra. After the outbreak of Second World War, he and his brothers enlisted in The Band Of The Irish Guards. After the war, he served as principal clarinetist of Philharmonia Orchestra from 1953 to 1964. When 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 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 The Music Group Of London. He also served as Principal Clarinet for The 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 Richard Walton and John Walton (6).