Career
During the Second World War he was a conscientious objector, and went to prison as a result. Once released, he was permitted to serve with the Light Rescue Service. After the war, Pirie and his family moved to Whitstable in Kent, where he helped to run a music and book shop, "Pirie and Cavender", which was in business until 2007.
Later on he moved to Sussex, near to the South Downs which he loved deeply.
His writing about music mainly consisted of magazine articles, reviews of recordings and concerts, and record sleeve-notes. He was a supporter of twentieth century English music, especially that of Arnold Bax and Frank Bridge.
