The Establishment of the Music Curiculum in South Australia: The Role of Alexander Clark

Alexander Clark, a trained tonic sol-faist, became an Inspector of South Australian schools in 1884. Under his guidance music secured a place in state-supported schooling. Clark was an enthusiastic, committed educator who lead by example and encouragement. He was warmly regarded and respected by his peers, teachers and school pupils. He championed the cause of music, pushed for teacher training in the subject, and was its strongest advocate in the public domain. Despite retrenchment from the inspectorate he continued his fight for music and was still teaching and conducting at the time of his death in 1913. This paper seeks to outline his career and contribution to the development of music in state schooling in South Australia. Effectively, Clark established the content and delivery practices of school music. Clark's efforts on behalf of the discipline were tireless and his enthusiasm converted many. His contribution requires documentation and acknowledgment.