A cultivator of classical music has received one of the University of Tasmania’s highest accolades.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra managing director Nicholas Heyward received the 2018 UTAS distinguished alumni awards at the university’s dinner in Launceston on September 20.
Mr Heyward has been at the forefront of bringing original Australian music to the attention of the world for the past 28 years.
His deep involvement in the arts began in 1963 with the St David’s Choir, where he received his music education from one of the great Australian music educators John Nicholls.
IN OTHER NEWS:
“I have really fond memories of my time at the University of Tasmania. I enjoyed not only the study, particularly history and ancient civilisations, but also all the extracurricular activities. I was involved in the University Musical Society, that helped set me up to where I’ve ended up today,” Mr Heyward said.
UTAS vice-chancellor Rufus Black congratulated Mr Heyward on the award.
“Mr Heyward is to be celebrated for his outstanding achievements in the arts and his significant contribution to the development and promotion of arts throughout Australia,” Professor Black said.
“The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra has been lifted into the international and national spotlight during Mr Heyward’s 17-year tenure as managing director.
“The impact and effect of Mr Heyward’s work will continue to influence Tasmania and Australia’s arts policy and practice for years to come.”
After 17 years with the TSO, Mr Heyward will step down in December and looks back proudly on his tenure at the helm.
“My time at the TSO has been very fulfilling, but it’s time to step down, I’ll be 65 in March. One thing about working for an organisation like the TSO is you can have your ups and downs, but the concert, the music, puts everything into perspective. You think, ‘this is what I’m doing it for’,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to giving more time to my role as chair of the National Trust. I’m very interested in history and heritage, it’s the main subject I studied at university and what I did my honours in, so I’m essentially back to where I started in a way.”
While you’re with us, did you know that you can now sign up to receive breaking news updates direct to your inbox? Sign up here.