A short introduction to the life and works of Britten, written by his former assistant, the composer David Matthews. Hundreds of events are planned in 2013 to mark the centenary of Britten's birth, including a year-long schedule of special performances and programming on the BBC. 'David Matthew's "Britten" is a lyrical appraisal of an often tormented existence' "Evening Standard"

David Matthews is one of the leading composers of his generation, his music acclaimed worldwide. In the 1960s he worked as an assistant to Britten. He is the author of Michael Tippett: An Introductory Study (Faber).