A vocal legacy

Over the years, Clare has dedicated many hours to helping ANU music students through her longstanding voluntary role as a Committee member and as Vice President of the ANU Friends of the School of Music.

"The majority of my free time in life has been dedicated to my enjoyment and interest in music and opera. My main interest has always been, and is, in Voice," says Clare.

"The Friends of the School of Music offers grants to students, which they predominately use for airfares to travel overseas to competitions, master classes or further study. It gives teachers and students a goal to work towards, exposure to the School and experience in front of an audience."

In addition to supporting the School through volunteering, Clare has decided to leave a gift to the School in her will.

"I am leaving nearly 70 per cent of my estate to the School of Music for a scholarship in Voice. It will be awarded to the female student who tops Voice at the post or undergraduate level," says Clare.

Clare understands how difficult it can be for musicians to build a career in music, and says scholarships are one way students can get a head start in the industry.

"A lot of the graduates of the School still have to have 'day jobs'. To make a living as a performer in Australia is very hard. Most students now need to do double degrees so they have another 'string to their bow'," Clare explains.

"Scholarships open up opportunities that otherwise would not be there."

Clare says the decision to leave a bequest was a careful one made with the involvement of her family.

"As a single person, without children, it is a way of me giving back to an artistic form that has given me the greatest pleasure in my life. I've already talked to my nieces and nephews – who I would like to leave a little something – and they know what I'm doing and are fully aware my main interest is music," she says.

"Now when I come to the University, I get a sense that I am a part of the School – a real sense of belonging."