Canadian Carnival (Kermesse canadienne), Op. 19 (1939) A concert overture by English composer, pianist and conductor Benjamin Britten (1913-1976). In April 1939, Britten left England for the United States with his frequent collaborator and life partner Peter Pears, an operatic tenor. Unhappy with the artistic climate in Europe, Britten hoped to find fresh opportunities in America. On the way, Britten spent a few weeks in Canada, where he attended a performance of his Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge given by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. While in Canada, his interest was sparked by a collection of French Canadian folk tunes that he came across; by the end of the year, Britten had completed the Canadian Carnival, Op. 19, based on such popular melodies as "Alouette". In this work, as in the subsequent American Overture, the influence of Aaron Copland is apparent, particularly the so-called "open prairie" sound typical of American music from this period. Conductor: Steuart Bedford English Chamber Orchestra