Sir Michael Tippett has been a central figure in British musical life for many decades and is now widely regarded as one of the foremost composers of the century.

Meiron Bowen's new updated study offers an in-depth examination of all Tippett's major compositions.

The author's 35 year association with the composer and immense experience of Tippett's music in performance result in some unique insights into his creative personality. He reveals a Blake-like visionary and an intensely human artist, sensitive to both people and to public events in a strife-torn century, but also stubbornly upholding the integrity and independence of his art.