Britten Pears Arts

Britten Pears Arts is a pioneering cultural charity based in Suffolk. It emerged from the determination of composer Benjamin Britten and his partner, singer Peter Pears, to ensure that everyone could enjoy and experience music. Britten Pears Arts aims to continue their legacy to develop talent, celebrate their heritage and engage with communities.

We use music to transform people’s lives, to bring communities together and enhance daily life. We want the arts to effect powerful positive change in, and for, society; or, as Britten himself would have put it, making the arts “useful.”

Community Team

The community team runs a year-round award-winning programme that delivers high quality music projects to young people, amateurs and the local community.

Aldeburgh Young Musicians

Aldeburgh Young Musicians is part of the national network of specialist Centres for Advanced Training, and brings together exceptionally talented young musicians aged 8-18 to rehearse, perform and exchange creative ideas.

Britten-Pears Young Artists

Britten-Pears young artists’ programme aims to bridge the gap between conservatoires and professional life, offering unique professional development opportunities in the inspiring setting of Snape Maltings.

Open Space and residencies

Open Space offers bespoke development opportunities for already established artists and ensembles, in a place of dramatic landscapes and rich musical history.

Jerwood Opera Writing Programme

The Jerwood Opera Writing Programme is designed for composers, writers and directors who have little or no experience of writing or creating opera, and who want to widen their horizons and equip themselves to create contemporary work combining music, theatre and text.