June Nixon

Helena June Rose Nixon (born 1942) is an Australian organist, pianist, choral conductor, lecturer and composer. She is known for her published choral arrangements, including her setting of "The Holly and the Ivy", performed by Australian collegiate choirs.

Biography Early life and education Nixon began her musical training at an early age, before studying at the University of Melbourne and earning a Diploma in Music (Piano) and Bachelor of Music (Organ). Post graduate scholarships enabled further study abroad, where she gained fellowship of the Royal College of Organists (FRCO) and became the first woman to receive the John Brooke prize for the Choirtraining Diploma.

Career Nixon won the 1968 Australian National Organ Competition. On retirement, she was appointed Organist Emerita.

She was a consultant for the restoration of the T.C. Lewis organ in St. Paul’s Cathedral, and was a member of the steering committee for the restoration of the Hill organ in the Melbourne Town Hall.

Awards Nixon has been recognised worldwide for her contributions to church music in Australia and among several awards are:

1995 – Percy Jones Award for "Outstanding dedication and service given to music for worship" from the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne 1998 – Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division in the Queen's Birthday Honours.

Recordings Nixon has recorded several albums of organ and choral music. Some of her notable recordings include "Great Music for Great Occasions," "Elgar Organ Sonatas," "Jubilaum," (organ music of Ronald Watson), "A tribute to Herbert Sumsion," and "Christmas Eve at St. Paul’s Cathedral."