British Modern period composer Bernard Stevens (1916-1983) was almost as well known for his political beliefs as for his musical ability. He joined the Communist Party in 1943 but resigned in 1956, protesting the Stalinist atrocities, including the Soviet invasion of Hungary. However, he remained a dedicated Marxist. He wrote in a number of genres, including various works for piano. His Symphony of Liberation celebrating the end of World War II won him a prize in a newspaper-sponsored contest.