Australian musicologist, author, critic and educator Roger Covell has died in Sydney at the age of 88. The Australia Ensemble, which Covell co-founded alongside Murray Khouri, and the University of New South Wales, where Covell was Emeritus Professor, paid tribute to Covell’s “immeasurable” contribution to Australian music in a statement on its website.

Roger Covell (1931–2019)

“His achievements and honours are many, and contributions even more extensive, establishing UNSW Opera in 1968, the commissioning of dozens of Australian works for opera and chamber ensemble performance, and championing works unknown to Sydney audiences,” the statement said. “Those fortunate enough to have experienced Roger as an academic, colleague, critic, mentor, and generous host have undoubtedly marvelled at his ability to bring vivid colour to language, and enliven the musical life of Australia. We are forever indebted. UNSW and the Australia Ensemble extends its sympathies to Roger Covell’s family.”

Covell was born in Sydney in 1931 but grew up in Queensland and worked as a journalist with the Courier Mail during his studies at the University of Queensland, returning to the newspaper in 1955 after several years in Britain.

Covell taught at the University of New...