ABOUT
Joanna, born in Scotland is an award-winning Composer published by Universal Editions.
Joanna has just released three Christmas Carol singles (published by UE) ahead of her first Classical Choral album 'Love Illuminates' releasing in early 2023 with record company; Regent Records, Director; Sarah MacDonald and the Chapel Choir of Selwyn College, Cambridge. The production is supported by the Gemma Classical Music Trust Registered Charity No. 1121090 and also by Help Musicians.
Joanna's first Choral symphony is due to premiere in the USA in 2024.
Joanna's music has been performed by a variety of prestigious ensembles, including the BBC Singer's, London Symphony Chorus and Orchestra, and in multiple venues including: The Royal Albert Hall, Barbican, Hampton Court Palace, and Canterbury Cathedral. Joanna wrote the music for short film 'Straight Jacket' which can be viewed on her media page.
In 2018 Joanna was awarded the Cappella Nova Competition Prize after writing a piece to mark 100 years since the Woman's Suffragette. Adjudicated by James Macmillan, 'Immortal Peace' premiered at Stirling castle followed by multiple performances at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Joanna also writes and arranges music for Film and TV and has arranged and orchestrated music for artists including Shan Ako (Hamilton), the Royal Philharmonic Strings, the UK Parliament prayer breakfast, the London Community Gospel Choir and has also co-orchestrated a new piece of music written especially for BBC's Songs of Praise in the presence of Her late Majesty the Queen.
Joanna has composed and orchestrated music for a theatrical production of 'The Exodus' at the Royal Albert Hall with BBC writer and narrator Paul Kerensa. Joanna is also passionate about the power of music to heal and has written music for a wellbeing app that uses digital art and music for meditation and wellbeing, you can find out more here.
Joanna is also Head of Classical Music at Holy Trinity Brompton Church and works closely with the Holy Trinity Brompton chamber choir and orchestra, and in 2021 she conducted carols for a special Advent Service with His Royal Highness, King Charles.
Joanna's Inspiration for music is summed up by a quote from Bernstein when he said:
"There is no aspect of music which doesn't intrigue me and claim me 100%, whether it's performing it or talking about it or writing it." (Bernstein)
"A very distinguished Composer, Arranger and Conductor"
Choral Conductor, London Symphony Chorus - Simon Halsey
"Joanna is amazing to work with! I approached her with a project, but didn't know exactly what I wanted the music to look like. Joanna was professional and relaxed and sent a few creative suggestions over which got my ideas flowing and gave me more confidence. From there we developed a really strong musical idea and I am so happy with the end result. I'd definitely work with Joanna again, and recommend her to anyone needing an experienced, professional musician who delivers a high-quality end product on time."
Film Director: 'Straight Jacket' - Hatty Haines
'Joanna has that natural ability to capture a range of moods and styles in one piece: from grandioso and majestic brass fanfares to beautifully executed woodwind runs, and from a natural Celtic flair for fiddling violin passages to Zimmeresque filmic drumming and percussion. Not only is Joanna an outstanding composer, orchestrator and arranger – at home with choral and symphonic writing – she is also a real delight to work with. You have a real sense that Joanna is not just invested in the notes on the page, but the players, singers and audience for whom she is penning each inspired note for.'
Conductor/Music Director - Michael Thomas Andrews
"Joanna, this Beautiful! Bravo"
Composer - Eric Whitacre
"Working with Joanna is such a treat. I send her my song and an idea of what I want orchestrated and it's like she is literally in my head and just envisages exactly what I wanted. It's a testament to her talent and gift. She is my go to person for sure. Looking forward to working on many more projects."
Singer-Songwriter - Fiona Lucy