The autobiography of Emeritus Professor Michael Atherton AM

At fifteen, Michael Atherton landed in Sydney carrying one thing only: a cheap guitar he didn’t know how to play. By the 1990s he was Foundation Professor of Music at the University of Western Sydney, drawing on his self-taught, working-class background to become the driving force behind an innovative, community-minded approach to music edu- cation. In 2018 he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in recognition of his service to the performing arts.

“An engaging account of an extraordinary life … Essential reading for anyone with an interest in the history of music in Australia.” – Jim Franklin, composer

“A colourful and eventful journey of courage and determination.” – Sandra Ridgewell, musicologist “A hugely enjoyable and compelling read.” –Bruce Elder, journalist