William Motzing, American composer and conductor (b. 1937)

William Edward Motzing Jr. (August 19, 1937 – January 30, 2014) was a highly influential American-born musician whose remarkable career spanned the roles of composer, conductor, arranger, and trombonist. He achieved significant recognition, particularly in Australia, where he became best known for his integral contributions to award-winning film and television scores, alongside his work on numerous gold and platinum pop album arrangements. Motzing's profound impact also extended to music education, as he served as a distinguished jazz lecturer and, for an impressive four decades, the Director of Jazz Studies at the prestigious Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

William Motzing's Multifaceted Musical Contributions

William Motzing's extensive expertise encompassed a wide array of musical disciplines. As a skilled composer, he crafted original pieces that resonated with audiences. His abilities as a conductor saw him leading orchestras and ensembles in numerous recording sessions and live performances. Perhaps one of his most sought-after talents was as an arranger, where he meticulously transformed musical ideas, tailoring them for diverse instrumental combinations and vocalists. Furthermore, his foundational skill as a trombonist provided him with a deep, practical understanding of instrumental performance, enriching his work across all other facets of his career.

Impact on Australian Film and Popular Music

Motzing's legacy in Australia is largely defined by his significant involvement in the country's burgeoning film and pop music industries. He was instrumental in shaping the sound of many iconic Australian productions and recordings. His arrangements and orchestral contributions were crucial to the success of:

Award-Winning Film Scores
He contributed to the distinctive orchestral soundscapes of many acclaimed Australian films, which garnered national and international recognition. While the original composers created the themes, Motzing's role often involved conducting and orchestrating these scores, bringing them to life on screen. His credits include work on beloved Australian cinematic treasures such as "The Man from Snowy River" (1982), "Phar Lap" (1983), and "Burke & Wills" (1985), among others.
Gold and Platinum Pop Album Arrangements
Motzing's sophisticated and often innovative arrangements were highly coveted by leading Australian pop artists. He played a pivotal role behind the scenes in the creation of numerous chart-topping albums, helping artists achieve commercial success and critical acclaim. His work graced recordings by major figures in Australian music, including John Farnham, Marcia Hines, and the iconic rock band INXS. His arrangements were integral to the polished sound that propelled these albums to gold and platinum status, reflecting millions of copies sold.

A Legacy in Jazz Education

Beyond his prolific work in the commercial music sector, William Motzing dedicated a substantial portion of his life to nurturing the next generation of musicians. His tenure at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, one of Australia's premier music institutions, was nothing short of transformative.

His unwavering commitment to education ensured that his deep understanding of jazz theory, performance, and arrangement was passed on, leaving an indelible mark on Australian jazz music.

Frequently Asked Questions about William Edward Motzing Jr.

Who was William Edward Motzing Jr.?
William Edward Motzing Jr. was an American-born composer, conductor, arranger, and trombonist primarily known for his significant contributions to Australian film scores and pop music, as well as his lengthy career as an esteemed jazz educator at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
What were William Motzing's key musical achievements?
He was celebrated for his award-winning contributions to film and television scores, often as an orchestrator and conductor, and for arranging gold and platinum-selling pop albums for major Australian artists like John Farnham and INXS. His work helped define the sound of Australian music across various genres.
What was William Motzing's role in music education?
William Motzing was a long-serving jazz lecturer and the Director of Jazz Studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music for 40 years. He played a pivotal role in developing and leading one of Australia's most respected jazz programs, influencing generations of musicians.
Where did William Motzing achieve most of his renown?
While American-born, William Motzing achieved much of his professional renown and built his enduring legacy in Australia, particularly through his extensive work in the film, television, and pop music industries, and his influential role in Australian music education.