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English composer, conductor, and pianist, a central figure in 20th-century British classical music.Born in Lowestoft, Suffolk, Britten showed prodigious musical talent from childhood. He studied at the Royal College of Music and gained early recognition with works like 'A Boy Was Born' (1934). A conscientious objector in WWII, he moved to America before returning to England in 1942. His opera 'Peter Grimes' (1945) revolutionized English opera. Co-founded the Aldeburgh Festival (1948) and composed masterpieces across genres until his death from heart failure.

• Britten lived openly with tenor Peter Pears, his lifelong partner and muse; many vocal works were composed for Pears.
• His pacifism during WWII led to scrutiny; he performed in concerts for the Ministry of Information as alternative service.
• The premiere of 'War Requiem' (1962) at Coventry Cathedral, a searing anti-war statement, became a cultural landmark.
• Faced heart valve replacement surgery in 1973; complications led to a stroke that paralyzed his right hand, yet he continued composing left-handed.
• Died of congestive heart failure three years after being the first composer awarded a life peerage (Baron Britten).