Birtwistle himself has no recollection of such an exit and, while he may have disliked the opera, Britten's letters show both sympathy and support for the difficult young composer, and he helps him obtain a study fellowship in America.

ECONOMIST: The man behind the myth

It's his Trinity College training in London -- he got into composition by applying as a violist, he laughs -- that helps him go where no classicist likely even knows one might venture.

CNN: Helping 'Bourne' rise to the occasion

That not only protects his anonymity while he goes about his crusade but also helps him dodge the taxman.

CNN: A Profitable Crusade