Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1958

Period

:

Contemporary

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

Joanne Metcalf is a contemporary classical music composer who was born in the United Kingdom in 1958. She grew up in a musical family, with her mother being a pianist and her father a composer. From a young age, Metcalf was exposed to classical music and began playing the piano at the age of five. She later went on to study music at the University of York, where she received a Bachelor of Music degree. After completing her studies, Metcalf began working as a freelance composer and musician. She has composed music for a variety of ensembles, including orchestras, choirs, and chamber groups. Her music is known for its intricate harmonies and use of unconventional instruments, such as the glass harmonica and the theremin. One of Metcalf's most notable works is her choral piece, "The River." Commissioned by the BBC Singers, the piece was inspired by the River Tyne in Newcastle, England. The piece features a haunting melody and intricate harmonies, and has been performed by choirs around the world. Another notable work by Metcalf is her chamber piece, "Night Flight." The piece was inspired by the experience of flying at night, and features a combination of acoustic and electronic instruments. The piece has been performed by a variety of ensembles, including the London Sinfonietta and the Birmingham Contemporary Music Group. Metcalf's music has been performed at a variety of venues and festivals, including the Royal Albert Hall in London and the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival. She has also received numerous awards and honors for her work, including the British Composer Award for Choral Music in 2018. In addition to her work as a composer, Metcalf is also a teacher and mentor to young musicians. She has taught at the University of York and the Royal Northern College of Music, and has mentored young composers through programs such as the London Symphony Orchestra's Panufnik Scheme. Overall, Joanne Metcalf is a talented and innovative composer whose music has been celebrated around the world. Her use of unconventional instruments and intricate harmonies has made her a unique voice in the contemporary classical music world.

More....