James Penberthy, Australian Composer, Conductor, educator and champion of Australian Arts. The autobiography moves through early education and war years, to an emerging fascination with the ballet, opera and the influence of Aboriginal themes. He had been well trained in overseas standards. He was a major influence in the creation of both the West Australian Ballet and West Australian Opera. Although some may have found his music, not to their taste by no means uncommon with contemporary music he was undoubtedly one of Australia s most creative artists, with a strong, truly distinctive streak.