Richard Meale (1932-2009) was an acclaimed Australian composer and a key figure in Australian modernist music. Born on August 24, 1932, in Sydney, he became one of Australia's most internationally recognized composers. Meale's compositions, spanning orchestral works, chamber music, and operas, were known for their sophisticated orchestration and distinctive musical language. He served as a professor at the University of Sydney, mentoring numerous Australian composers. Meale passed away on November 23, 2009, in Sydney, leaving a lasting legacy in Australian classical music.