Biography

Born in Sydney in 1927. From the age of 12 (in 1940) has lived in New Zealand, except for a stay of almost two years (1977-79) teaching in Sydney. Educated at Hutt Valley High School where he received his first musical experience in the school brass band beginning on tenor horn and then on cornet and later, trumpet. Obtained M.Mus (hons) degree from the University of Auckland in 1968. Previously, studied science and music at Victoria University of Wellington and music at Canterbury University of Christchurch. Other qualifications include : Diploma of Teaching from the Wellington Teachers’ College (1950) ; L.R.S.M. (1958), F.T.C.L. (1975) – both on trumpet performance.

Primary school teacher for one year, secondary teacher of music and general science nine years, teacher of brass instruments for the Auckland Education Board twenty years, part-time private teacher of brass instruments and music theory eighteen years. Part-time professional trumpet player for seven years in the Symphonia of Auckland (now Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra).

Considerable experience in conducting various groups including band, orchestra, choir and chamber music ensembles.

In 1967 founded the Auckland Youth Symphonic Band, conducting it for 10 years (before moving for the 2 years in Sydney). This was the first band of its kind in New Zealand – the only other wind band at that time being the NZ Navy Band. The group expanded greatly in numbers and in 1973 it was found necessary to form it into two divisions – a junior and senior. They still flourish, but the senior division is now called the Auckland Wind Orchestra.

Tutor and conductor at the annual National Secondary Schools Orchestral Holiday Courses under the auspices of the Education Board for twenty years. Founder/conductor of the Phoenix Wind Eensemble (1982- 87) – later re-named Auckland Concert Band, but no longer in existence. Numerous chamber music concerts organized and conducted during this period. Conductor of the wind ensembles at the Cambridge Music Schools 1982-84. South Auckland Choral Society and Orchestra in Handel’s Messiah 1982. Conducted a season of 31 performances of ‘The Mikado’ at the Mercury Theatre, Auckland 1987, and the St. Matthew Chamber Orchestra Summer Concerts 1987-89. It was at one of these latter concerts that Song Celestial (for soprano and chamber orchestra) was performed with the composer’s daughter, Wendy, in the singing role. Member of the Composer’s Federation of New Zealand and of the Fellowship of Australian Composers (2003) and APRA (since 1983) ; listed in New Zealand Who’s Who Aotearoa 1994 Edition.

Up until retirement from teaching, composing was spread thinly over the years (“busy with other things.”) From about 1988/89 busy with the Theosophical Society – National President of the Society 1993-95, National Lecturer ; took study classes and gave lectures round country at the various branches up until about 2004, and as well lectured in Australia and once in India (Chennai/Madras) and in Brasilia. Later did over 6 years as Editor of the quarterly magazine Theosophy in New Zealand.

• Works (38)