About.

Why Benjamin Britten?

Benjamin Britten is Lowestoft’s most accomplished son. Born in 1913, he showed musical talent at an early age and went on to become a central figure of 20th-century British music as an outstanding composer, conductor, and pianist. His best-known works include the opera Peter Grimes (1945), the War Requiem (1962) and the orchestral showpiece The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra (1945). With his professional and personal partner, the tenor Peter Pears, he founded the Aldeburgh Festival. He was made a Freeman of Lowestoft in 1951, awarded the Order of Merit by Her Majesty the The Queen in 1965 and was the first musician to be elevated to the peerage as Baron Britten in 1976, just six months before he died.

More about Benjamin Britten

**Why Britten as a boy?**

To depict the great composer as a boy, at the age at which his talents were spotted and encouraged, makes him approachable and relatable to fellow children and an inspiration for them to pursue their own ambitions. We believe it is the first time a great figure has been depicted as a child.

Where will it be placed?

The statue will be placed, facing out to sea, between Britten’s childhood home and the promenade. It has the full approval of East Suffolk Council as part of wider plans to re-landscape the seafront. The statue will be visible from the attic bedroom window where the young composer watched the north sea that inspired much of his music.

How much will it cost?

Taking into account the various stages of development and allowing for unknown costs such as preparing the site for installation, £110,000. Any excess raised will be placed in a fund to clean and maintain the statue when needed.

Who will pay for it?

Individuals and trusts. The sale of limited-edition statue maquettes is helping to raise a healthy sum towards the project. For donations of £1000 or more you can have your name, that of a business or loved one, cast into the donors plaque that will be located close to the statue.

What happens if you raise more than you need?

Any excess raised will support the installation and maintenance of the statue and allow us to provide attractive information boards about Britten's young life in Lowestoft. It would also enable us to keep this website open as an archive resource.

How did you choose the sculptor?

We looked at artists producing work on the scale we envisaged and of sufficient detail and feeling. Ian Rank-Broadley is one of the most distinguished sculptors in this field and he responded passionately when approached about representing Britten as a boy and the potential of the statue to inspire future generations. He also has a childhood connection with Lowestoft.

Can we see the model (maquette)?

You can view a 360% view here or look out for news of events where you can view the maquette in person. Alternatively please contact the committee to arrange a private viewing.