(November 2024) Episode 616 is BENJAMIN BRITTEN, one of the most renowned English composers of the 20th century. Operas and choral works are his most recognized forms, although he composed in a wide range: choral, voice, chamber, orchestral, film scores. Overall the character of his work is rather normie, a “progressive conservatism” as one critic called it. While he was influenced by Berg, Stravinsky and Schoenberg, his music is not avant-garde and does not defy convention. But there is a much interesting to the ear. Characterizing his own style, Britten said composers should aim at “pleasing people today as seriously as we can.”
Favourite piece: War Requiem
Favorite chamber work: Cello Suite No. 3 (dedicated to Mstislav Rostropovich)
Favourite choral work: Missa Brevis in D for Choir and Organ
Favourite solo piece: Six Metamorphoses after Ovid
Compared to expectations: same
Recommendation: War Requiem, his most famous work is a good place to start. I’m not into opera but try Peter Grimes if you are. I like the various cellos works.
Opus Project 