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Howard Blake is a British composer known for his composition "Walking in the Air," which gained widespread recognition as the theme song for the beloved animated film "The Snowman." Here are some interesting facts about Howard Blake and "Walking in the Air":

1. "Walking in the Air" Origin: Howard Blake composed "Walking in the Air" in 1982 as part of the soundtrack for the animated film "The Snowman." The song is performed by a young choirboy named St Paul's Cathedral choirboy Peter Auty in the original film.

2. Re-Recording with Aled Jones: Although Peter Auty provided the vocals for the original version, the more famous rendition of "Walking in the Air" features the voice of Aled Jones, a young Welsh singer. This version was released as a single in 1985, three years after the film's release, and became a Christmas classic.

3. Awards and Recognition: Howard Blake's composition "Walking in the Air" received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song in 1984, cementing its status as one of the most beloved and iconic Christmas songs of all time.

4. Variations and Arrangements: Howard Blake has created various arrangements of "Walking in the Air," including orchestral versions, piano solos, and even a vocal duet version featuring himself and the famous Irish singer Sinéad O'Connor.

5. "The Snowman" Legacy: "The Snowman" is a short animated film based on the children's picture book of the same name by Raymond Briggs. The film and its accompanying song have become holiday staples in many countries, and they continue to captivate new generations of viewers and listeners.

6. Blake's Other Works: While "Walking in the Air" is undoubtedly Howard Blake's most famous composition, he has a prolific career as a composer with a diverse body of work, including classical compositions, film scores, and music for television.

7. Classical Compositions: Howard Blake has composed numerous classical pieces, including symphonies, concertos, and chamber music. He is considered a respected figure in the world of classical music.

8. Film and Television Scores: In addition to "The Snowman," Blake has scored music for several other films and television series, showcasing his versatility as a composer.

9. Honors and Awards: Over the years, Howard Blake has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to music, including being appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1994 for his services to music.

10. Continued Performances: "Walking in the Air" continues to be performed by choirs, orchestras, and soloists around the world during the Christmas season, making it a timeless and enduring piece of music.

Howard Blake's "Walking in the Air" has left a lasting impact on the world of music and animation, and it remains a cherished part of holiday traditions for many people.