The term 'Billy Budd Composer' refers to the English composer Benjamin Britten, who wrote the OPERA 'Billy Budd' based on the novella of the same name by Herman Melville. The OPERA was adapted for the stage by Peter Ustinov and starred Robert Helpmann as Billy Budd and Peter Ustinov as John Claggart. The story follows the life of a young SAILOR, Billy Budd, who is falsely accused of mutiny and sentenced to death. The character of Vere is the captain of the ship and is ultimately responsible for Billy's fate. The story is set in the 18th century and is a classic tale of justice and morality.