In the latest edition of Digital Discussions, we explore the art collection at The Red House, as our speakers dive into the intrinsic connection between music and visual art, inherent to Britten and Pears’ world.

Our resident musicologist, Dr Lucy Walker, provides a glimpse into what some might call Britten’s “musical eye“ – from the tune of a sweeping forest to Britten’s work for films, Lucy uncovers his ability to paint pictures in music.

We are also joined by distinguished art historian, Frances Spalding, who is the author (among many other books) of a fascinating study of English art between the two World Wars – The Real and the Romantic – and a biography of John and Myfanwy Piper, who collaborated with Britten on so many of his major operas. Frances is joined by Dr Chris Hilton, Head of Archive at The Red House, to unpick a small selection of some of the works from the collection.

An amalgamation of Britten and Pears’ own collection, along with many new editions kindly donated over the years, there are nearly 1,000 artworks carefully cared for behind the scenes in the archive, in addition to those on display in The Red House and Library.

The eclectic range of pieces reflects a combination of their personal tastes, their working relationships with artists, and their friends at the heart of the UK’s art scene in the mid-20th century. Listen to the discussion to uncover the story behind just a few of the special works available to see.

The Archive at The Red House is probably the richest composer’s archive in the world and is open to anyone to visit. All items held within the Archive have been digitally catalogued, and are available to search online.

Watch Art at The Red House

Join us for our new webinar exploring the artistic legacy held at The Red House. From rarely seen works to personal stories behind the collections, this is a chance to experience the creativity that shaped Britten and Pears’ world.