BENJAMIN BRITTEN AND RUSSIA

This book explores Benjamin Britten's creative relationship with Russia throughout his life by examining his engagement with Russian composers, musicians and writers in the context of twentieth-century politics. The remarkable relationship between Britten and Shostakovich is a central theme, but other key influences are considered, particularly Britten's passion for Tchaikovsky, his more elusive fascination with Prokofiev, and his ambiguous attitude towards Stravinsky. Britten's enduring friendships with Rostropovich, Vishnevskaya and Richter are also placed in the context of his musical output.