Peter Grimes is considered part of the standard repertoire. In addition, the "Four Sea Interludes", consisting of the first, third, fifth and second interludes from the opera, were published separately (as Op. 33a) and are frequently performed as an orchestral suite. The fourth interlude, the Passacaglia was also published separately (as Op. 33b), and is also often performed, either together with the "Sea Interludes" or by itself. In 1941, shortly after the first performance of his opera "Paul Bunyan", Britten and his partner Peter Pears went to stay at Escondido, California. There they read the poem by Crabbe and were struck by
Peter Grimes with John, the apprentice. She is horrified when she finds a bruise on his neck. When she confronts Grimes about it, he brusquely claims that it was an accident. Growing agitated at her mounting concern and interference, he strikes her and runs off with the boy. This does not go unseen: first Keene, Auntie, and Bob Boles, then the chorus comment on what has happened, the latter developing into a mob to investigate Grimes's hut. As the men march off, Ellen, Auntie, and the nieces sing sadly of the relationship of women with men. The fourth interlude (Passacaglia) follows as