Britten's Musical World

The programme will feature performances of Britten's Sonata for Cello and Piano and Suite No. 3 for Solo Cello, played by cellist Guy Johnston and pianist Melvyn Tan. These works will be accompanied by readings from Britten, Virginia Woolf, and W.H. Auden, brought to life by actor Samuel West. The event will also include Tchaikovsky's "Autumn", a composer who was close to Britten's heart and with whom he shared similar emotional turmoil.

The music and readings have been carefully selected to offer a portrait of Britten through the people, ideas, and music that shaped him. The programme will delve into Britten's intense collaborations with cellist Mstislav Rostropovich and poet W.H. Auden, providing a unique insight into his musical world. By exploring these influences and relationships, the event will celebrate the depth and complexity of Britten's work, 50 years after his death.

A pre-show talk will be given by Paul Boucher, curator and research director of The Montagu Music Collection at Boughton House, providing further context and understanding of the programme. This talk will offer a valuable introduction to the event, setting the scene for the performances that follow.

The event will take place on Sunday, 6 December 2026, at Charleston in Lewes. Tickets and details are available with the button beside this article. This is a unique opportunity to experience the music and literature that defined Britten's life and work, and to gain a deeper understanding of his enduring legacy.

The combination of music and readings makes this event a compelling tribute to Britten's legacy, and a fitting celebration of his contribution to British music. With its carefully curated programme and insightful pre-show talk, this event is sure to resonate with audiences and provide a lasting appreciation of Britten's work.