Birtwistle at 80

Probably nobody understands the music scene as clearly as Prof. Gavin Henderson, a natural performer, organiser and advocate for all things musical. Who better then to interview Sir Harrison Birtwistle, who is 80 this year? A young Turk from the avant-garde ‘Manchester School’ of the 1950s, Harry is jovial, self-deprecating and has a twinkle in his eye. He and Gavin are old friends and collaborators. They involved us easily in their discussion of music, the earliest Brighton Festivals, theatrical production and the musical life. Apparently ‘practice doesn’t make perfect’, so Harry sold his clarinets and concentrated on composition – good call!

William IV Room, Royal Pavilion, 11 May 2014

Rating: