The author, of Black Country parentage, discovered the music of Benjamin Britten in his early years. In this study he presents an account of the composer's life, and seeks to reveal something of the nature of the man, his circle of friends and associates, and the source of his continuing fascination both as composer and performer. Mr Gilbert is a devotee of the annual Presteigne Music Festival and the landscape of the Welsh Marches. All royalties from the sale of this book will be donated to the Presteigne Festival of Music and the Arts. About The Author The author lives in an undistinguished Black Country town, noted for its dour conservatism. As a necessary antidote, he finds pleasure in classical music, Anglican worship, conversation with friends, and a very modest walled garden.