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"Walking in the Air" is a song composed by Howard Blake for the animated film "The Snowman." Here are some interesting facts about Howard Blake and the song:

1. Composition for "The Snowman": Howard Blake composed "Walking in the Air" in 1982 as part of the soundtrack for the animated short film "The Snowman," based on the book by Raymond Briggs.

2. Original Version: The song was originally sung by St. Paul's Cathedral choirboy Peter Auty for the film. However, a later version recorded by Welsh chorister Aled Jones became more widely known and popular.

3. Aled Jones' Rendition: Aled Jones recorded the song when he was just 14 years old. His version of "Walking in the Air" was released as a single in 1985 and became a hit in the UK charts.

4. No. 5 in the UK Charts: Aled Jones' recording of the song reached number five in the UK Singles Chart in 1985, marking its success as a standalone piece beyond its association with "The Snowman" film.

5. Instrumental Versions: Besides the vocal versions, Howard Blake also created instrumental arrangements of "Walking in the Air," showcasing the song's beautiful melody through various instruments.

6. International Impact: The song has been used in various adaptations and translations of "The Snowman" around the world, contributing to its international recognition.

7. Award-Winning Composer: Howard Blake is a highly accomplished composer, having worked on a variety of film scores, ballets, and other musical compositions. He received a BAFTA award for his work on "The Snowman."

8. Versatility: While "Walking in the Air" is one of Howard Blake's most well-known compositions, he has a diverse body of work that includes classical pieces, film scores, and music for television.

The enduring popularity of "Walking in the Air" makes it a timeless and beloved piece, especially during the holiday season.