Professor Lodge made an outstanding contribution to New Zealand music and the development of music at the University of Waikato.
Professor Lodge and Vice-Chancellor Professor Neil Quigley at his Emeritus Professor award ceremony
He was the first person to be made a Professor in the music programme at the University and was central to growing and developing it into a fully formed subject for undergraduate to doctoral qualifications.
He worked collaboratively with Dr Hirini Melbourne and Dr William Dart in creating a programme where equal weight was given to Māori music, popular music, and the Western tradition of classical music.
He also conceived, commissioned, and fundraised for the University’s collection of traditional instruments, Te Kohinga Taonga Pūoro. His articles on New Zealand music historiography are considered groundbreaking and frequently cited as the foundation of an emerging discipline.
For his contributions, the University awarded Martin the title of Emeritus Professor in September 2023.
Professor Lodge’s work is heard at the University multiple times each year – he composed the processional music used at each of the University’s Graduation events. He also actively fundraised for the construction of the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts, which he played a role in designing with involvement in its performance specifications.
To acknowledge his passing the University’s flag is being flown at half mast. Our thoughts are with his family.
