Bernhard Neumann Memorial Prize

Professor Bernhard Neumann was a Professor of Mathematics from the early days of The
Australian National University. He was a founding member of the Friends of the School of
Music and played an active part on the Friends Committee for most of the time until his death
in October 2002, aged 91. Professor Neumann was renowned for rigour in academic standards
and a strong desire that his students should succeed. He was also well known for his standard
question in committee, “Can we afford it?”

Professor Neumann rode his bicycle in all weathers, often with cello slung behind. This feat
required considerable skill and perseverance, the often hard pressed rider leaning to windward
and pushing at snail’s pace. Bernhard, a well known and popular figure, played cello in the
Canberra Symphony Orchestra for many years.

Listed below are winners of the Bernhard Neumann Memorial Prize (formerly the Friends
Prize). The prize, now funded permanently from the ANU Endowment Friends Project Fund,
is currently $1,000. The Prize is awarded annually to the best fourth year student.
Contribution to School life and activity is also taken into account.

Winners of the Bernhard Neumann Memorial Prize

2017 Millie Watson (composition)

2016 Louis Montgomery (recording)

2015 Ellen Falconer (piano) / Cassandra Low

2014 Tate Sheridan (piano)

2013 Tobias Chisnall (violin)

2012 Jonathan Barakat (musicology, composition)