University Honours for Emeritus Professor Larry Sitsky »

The University has honoured distinguished Emeritus Professor Larry Sitsky, presenting him with an honorary degree in recognition of his contribution to music and music scholarship and for his pioneering leadership at the ANU School of Music. Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Young AO presented Professor Sitsky for the Degree of Doctor of Letters, honoris causa, at the first of the 2015 end of year graduation ceremonies at ANU. "Professor Sitsky is an extraordinary musician and one of Australia's foremost composers who has played a significant role in shaping Australia's contemporary cultural life," Professor Young said. "His achievements are capacious: from composition, performance and recording to broadcasting, teaching and research." Professor Sitsky was born in China of Russian-Jewish parents. He arrived in Australia in 1951 and initially studied engineering before turning to music. Professor Sitsky was a founding member of the Canberra School of Music, which later became the ANU School of Music, where he has held the positions of Head of Composition Studies, Head of Academic Studies, Head of Keyboard Studies and Emeritus Professor. He has composed in a range of musical forms including operas, concerti, chamber music and works for solo instruments.