Teaching music the driving force for Tasmanian recipient

Amanda Wojtowicz AM learned the piano as a child and always knew she wanted to be a teacher. She has been committed to music education throughout her adult life.  

Ms Wojtowicz started her teaching career as a junior primary school teacher, mainly involved in singing and choirs. In 1964 she was one of the first students to attend the Conservatorium of Music in Tasmania, which led to her becoming a music teacher. She later taught at the Conservatorium and at the University of Tasmania. She was for a time Chair of the Australian Music Centre, which promotes music education for everyone.  

Ms Wojtowicz says that she is very happy to be recognised for doing what she loves.  

“Coming for the Investiture here at Government House in Hobart makes me feel very privileged and honoured. It’s such a prestigious award.” 

Her family have been supporters and backstops throughout her life and career. “I have been always able to call on them to assist me in multiple ways and have always been confident of their willingness to help me. In many of my activities I need to have a 'fallback position' and it's always them to whom I ‘fallback’, mainly in very practical ways. Our family is truly family - we are in regular contact and celebrate together at any opportunity.”  

“My other supporter at the ceremony - the composer Don Kay OAM - has been my mentor and confidant since I began at the Conservatorium of Music. Don and I were very close colleagues when I began there as a lecturer and have worked together on many different projects in the arts, both music as well as visual arts and theatre. We are constantly in contact about issues and events.” 

Ms Wojtowicz says that acknowledging contributions to the community is important. “It plays a part of the self-esteem and personal identity of people who have in most cases altruistically involved themselves as volunteers and demonstrated their commitment to humanity in various ways.”  

Of receiving her honour, Ms Wojtowicz says she felt slightly embarrassed. “There are many others with whom I've worked on events, projects and in organisations who also deserve recognition. So I intend to think very seriously about nominating someone.”  

And as is often the case with Order recipients, Ms Wojtowicz will continue to contribute to her community through involvement in a range of activities:  the Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts, the Way to St James Pilgrimage in Cygnet, my commitment to the Cygnet Singers Community Choir and the W D Joske Colloquium.  

Amanda Wojtowicz AM was invested in the Order of Australia at the Spring 2023 ceremonies at Government House, Hobart.