Jack Body's Birthday Festschrift

On Tuesday October 7, 2014 it will be Jack Body's 70th birthday.

'Friends of Jack' (led by Dame Gillian Whitehead, Jennifer Shennan and Scilla Askew) are publishing a book to celebrate and honour him.

In his video tribute, Tan Dun - a colleague and friend of Jack's and New Zealandly known for his music for films such as 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' - gives a taste of the warmth and joy that pervades the book.

About the book

More than 100 contributions from friends, family, composers, musicians, university colleagues and more from all over the world have been gathered. The tributes - by turns heartfelt, funny and moving - reveal the extent of Jack's artistic connections, and the life-changing influence he has had on so many who have worked and played with him.

For more than 40 years he has been an irresistible creative force, particularly in the world of New Zealand music.

How you can help

Two thirds of the funding for this special project has already been secured. If you can contribute towards the remaining amount needed, it would be very much appreciated. This is also a wonderful way to make your personal contribution to Jack's birthday celebrations.

You will be gratefully acknowledged in the book and we hope to thank you in person at the launch.

The book is currently being prepared for printing by Wellington publisher, Steele Roberts, and is expected to be available early next year.

About Jack

In case you haven't heard the sad news, Jack Body is also very ill with inoperable cancer. He is at home, and his wonderful partner, Yono, is taking great care of him. He is completing projects and taking a great interest in this one. The book even includes interviews with him about some of his most important music projects and also his photography.

As fellow Artist Laureate, John Psathas says, Jack is 'a guiding star, twinkling away with smiling reminders and invaluable compass bearings.'

With our thanks and appreciation,
'Friends of Jack'
Gillian Whitehead, Jennifer Shennan and Scilla Askew

Further information about Jack and his work:

� Jack was made a Laureate of the Arts Foundation in 2005 - read about him on the website 

� Visit Jack's own website

� Find out about his works from SOUNZ, the Centre for New Zealand Music.

� Read more about Jack's current situation - there was a very public announcement and interview in the Dominion Post in April this year.