Jan Sedivka
Jan Boleslav Sedivka , Czech-born, was one of Australia's foremost violinists and teachers.
Biography
Educated in Czechoslovakia, France and England, Jan Sedivka made his reputation overseas as a soloist, chamber music player and teacher before coming to Australia in 1961.As a performer, Jan Sedivka gained special merit for his efforts on behalf of Australian contemporary music. In this capacity he introduced a number of important works dedicated to him, in particular concertos by Larry Sitsky, James Penberthy, Ian Cugley, Don Kay, Colin Brumby, Edward Cowie and Eric Gross.
His wife Beryl Sedivka is a noted pianist who often performed with him.
Writings
- An Assessment of: “Bach’s Chaconne for Unaccompanied Violin - a Study in Interpretation” by Graham Wood, ds., Hobart, 1974
Honours and awards
- Member of the Order of Australia 1987
- Honorary Fellow, Trinity College of Music, London
- Honorary Doctor of Letters, University of Tasmania
- Honorary Professor, Shanghai Conservatory of Music
- Memorial Gold Medal, Prague Academy of Musical Arts
- Honorary Fellowship in Music Australia
- Honorary Citizen, Royal City of Slany
- Honorary Professor University of Tasmania 1995
- Distinguished Service Award Australian Strings Association 1998.
Bernard Heinze Memorial Award
The Sir Bernard Heinze Memorial Award is given to a person who has made an outstanding contribution to music in Australia.!