The Music of Nigel Butterley by Elliott Gyger. Wildbird, 2015. $39.99 AUD - 'From Sorrowing Earth: A Celebration of Nigel Butterley's 80th Birthday', Arcko Symphonic Ensemble, Iwaki Auditorium, Melbourne.

Abstract

<p>The Australian composer Nigel Butterley (1935–) celebrated his eightieth birthday in 2015. The occasion was marked by several significant concerts (more in Melbourne than the composer's hometown of Sydney, curiously) and the publication of an important new book, <i>The Music of Nigel Butterley</i>, written by fellow composer Elliott Gyger (Wildbird, 2015). In some ways, this has served as a sad reminder of how little known and little heard his fascinating music remains, despite his recognised and longstanding contributions to musical life in Australia, not only as a composer, but as a teacher and performer.</p>