This volume provides a definitive performing edition of William Walton’s String Quartet in A minor, addressing the need for a reliable, scholarly score for contemporary musicians. The editor utilizes the established Walton Edition Chamber Music volume to present the work as it was intended for performance, documenting the historical context of its 1947 premiere and its subsequent evolution into the Sonata for String Orchestra.

Musicologists and performers regard this edition as the standard reference for the work due to its adherence to the composer's final revisions. It is widely utilized by chamber ensembles seeking an authoritative source for study and public performance.