This analysis of the music of Britten the beloved English composer, pianist, and accompanist who died in 1976 grew out of the Britten Festival, which celebrated the composer's career with eight concerts at Guildhall School of Music & Drama in London, on the 25th anniversary of his death. Johnson (accompaniment, Guildhall School of Music & Drama) writes as a scholar, performer, and close friend and colleague of the composer, offering privileged insight into the genesis and performance of Britten's music. Two CDs containing performances from the festival are included. Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)