Peter Pears

Born in Surrey, Pears studied at the Royal College of Music and met Britten in 1937. Pears premiered many of Britten's works, including operatic roles and vocal compositions. The two formed a personal and professional relationship that lasted over three decades, living openly as life partners. Pears was versatile, performing a wide repertoire, and advocated for contemporary classical music, co-founding the Aldeburgh Festival in 1948. Even after Britten's death in 1976, Pears continued to perform, receiving honors such as a knighthood in 1978. His legacy lives on through recordings and the lasting impact of the Aldeburgh Festival. Peter Pears passed away in 1986.