Arts
Peter Sculthorpe’s death a ‘huge loss, but he leaves such a big musical legacy’
Peter Sculthorpe interviewed by Peter Thompson on ABC Talking Heads
Classical composer Peter Sculthorpe has been lauded as a musical giant following his death. The 85-year-old died in Sydney on Friday morning after a long illness.
Over six decades of a rich musical career, Sculthorpe changed Australia’s music landscape forever.
Born in Tasmania, he studied in post-war London before returning to Australia, joining the University of Sydney’s music department in 1963.
“He was an outstanding composer and a delightful man, who has built the music foundations of this university over several decades,” vice-chancellor Michael Spence said. “Professor Sculthorpe is such a huge loss, but at the same time he leaves such a big music legacy.”
David Rutledge, ABC Encounter: Peter Sculthorpe discusses life, death and spirituality
• Vanessa Goodwin: Paying tribute to Peter Sculthorpe
• John Hayward, in Comments: As Peter Sculthorpe revered nature and the quality of kindness, I would prefer my own tribute not be involuntarily channelled via a party which clearly despises them both.