Peter Pears was an English opera singer and actor who is best known for his roles in Billy Budd, Distant Voices, Still Lives, and The Looking Glass. He was also one of the founders of the Aldeburgh Festival, which began in 1948.
Personal and Family Life
Born on June 22, 1910, in Farnham, Surrey, Pears had a long and fruitful career in music. He was the long-time partner of composer Benjamin Britten, with whom he collaborated closely. Pears was active in teaching and supporting young singers at the Britten-Pears School in Aldeburgh after retiring from performance.
Achievements
Pears continued to perform into his 60s and received several honors for his contributions to music, including becoming a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (C.B.E.) in 1957 and receiving a knighthood in 1978. His influence on the world of opera and classical music is remembered fondly.
Death and Legacy
Peter Pears passed away on April 3, 1986, in Aldeburgh, Suffolk. His legacy lives on through his recordings and his impact on the world of opera. He is remembered as a significant figure in 20th-century classical music.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Benjamin Britten: A Time There Was… | 1979-01-09 | Himself |
| Billy Budd | 1966-12-11 | Captain Vere |
| Peter Grimes | 1969-11-02 | Peter Grimes |
| Britten’s Children | 2004-01-01 | Self |
| Owen Wingrave | 1971-05-16 | General Sir Philip Wingrave / Col. Wingrave and Ghost / Narrator |
| The Burning Fiery Furnace | 1967-11-12 | |
| Benjamin Britten – In Rehearsal and Performance with Peter Pears | 1964-06-01 | |
| Britten: Nocturne | 2013-12-03 | Himself |
| The Hidden Heart: A Life of Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears | 2009-02-10 | |
| Benjamin Britten and His Festival | 1967-11-22 | Self |