BONUS EDITION: Sir George Benjamin

In the second of his conversations with figures in music who have played a key role in his life, Tommy Pearson talks to the composer Sir George Benjamin, who he first met at school when George visited his school for a London Sinfonietta education project. They talk about music education, the role of a composer today, studying with Olivier Messiaen, the joy of music and writing a hit opera. And in a deeply personal tribute, George remembers his close friend and fellow composer, Oliver Knussen. The conversation was recorded in late 2018 and this is the first time it has been released. Presenter/Producer: Tommy Pearson   If you enjoy our podcasts, please help us continue by making a donation at paypal.me/classicaltop5.  Thank you!   For all latest info:Our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/theclassicaltop5  On Twitter: twitter.com/classicaltop5