- The Geraldine Pascall
Foundation has determined that for its 1993 award there
shall be two recipients - both in the field of serious music
criticism. The awards were recommended unanimously but this
year's panel of advisers which comprised Warren Fahey the
musician and principal of Larrikin Entertainment; Diana
Simmonds the Arts Editor of the Bulletin; Patron of Musica
Viva Ken Tribe AC; journalist and Secretary of NSW Ministry
for the Arts Evan Williams; and Kim Williams from the ABC.
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- The award has been made to
Roger Covell and Cyrus Meher-Homji.
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- Roger Covell, has over a
period of 30 years achieved domestic and international
recognition for his writing on music in Australia. As chief
music critic for the Sydney Morning Herald since 1960, Mr
Covell has chronicled an astonishing array or orchestral,
operatic, chamber music and contemporary ensemble
performances. His conspectus of work constitutes a modern
history in the growth and development of the classical music
culture not only in Sydney, but in Australia. That
contribution has been made with literary flair, keen
intelligence, deep knowledge and an astute perception which
deserve recognition from the community and his peers. His
caring focus on Australian composition throughout that
period has been characterised by a constructive, thoughtful
core rarely seen in modern criticism.
-
- Cyrus Meher-Homji's
contribution as the founding Managing Editor of the fine
music review magazine Soundscapes is not only
deserving of encouragement but recognition as a genuinely
original journal that has demonstrated a striking quality
and comprehensive coverage in its first issues and a proud
emphasis on Australian music life and original Australian
recorded music production.
-
- The launching of a journal
such as Soundscapes in a small and fragile domestic
environment, evidences a commitment and passion rarely found
in the development of a serious critical culture in
Australia. Soundscapes is a refreshing new voice on
the Australian musical scene and it deserves a long future
and the active support of Australian musicians and audiences
alike. Mr Meher-Homji's immense contribution to music in
each of the issues produced thus far is testament to his
talent commitment and enthusiasm.
