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Composer  

 

Joanna Forbes l'Estrange is a British composer, arranger, and singer who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born in 1974 in London, England, she grew up in a musical family and began playing the piano at the age of four. Her father, Richard Forbes, was a composer and conductor, and her mother, Gillian, was a singer and music teacher. Joanna's parents encouraged her to pursue music, and she began composing her own pieces at a young age. Joanna attended the Royal Academy of Music in London, where she studied composition, piano, and singing. She graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in 1996 and went on to earn a Master of Music degree from the same institution in 1997. During her time at the Royal Academy of Music, Joanna was awarded several prizes for her compositions, including the Theodore Holland Award and the Alan Bush Prize. After completing her studies, Joanna began working as a freelance composer and arranger. She has written music for a wide range of ensembles, including choirs, orchestras, and jazz bands. Her compositions are known for their lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and inventive use of rhythm. Joanna's music is often inspired by nature, and she has written several pieces that celebrate the beauty of the natural world. One of Joanna's most notable works is her choral piece "Birdsong," which was commissioned by the BBC Singers in 2008. The piece is based on the sounds of birdsong and features intricate vocal harmonies and rhythmic patterns. "Birdsong" has been performed by choirs around the world and has become one of Joanna's most popular compositions. In addition to her work as a composer, Joanna is also an accomplished arranger and singer. She has arranged music for several well-known artists, including Sting, Jamie Cullum, and the Swingle Singers. Joanna has also released several albums as a singer, including "Lullaby of Birdland" and "Come Rain or Come Shine." Her singing style is characterized by its warmth, clarity, and emotional depth. Joanna's music has been performed by some of the world's leading ensembles, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, and the King's Singers. Her compositions have been featured at several major music festivals, including the BBC Proms and the Cheltenham Music Festival. Joanna has also collaborated with several prominent conductors, including Sir Simon Rattle and John Rutter. In recent years, Joanna has become increasingly interested in the intersection of classical music and jazz. She has written several pieces that blend elements of both genres, including "Shall We Dance?" and "Swingin' Shepherd Blues." Joanna's jazz-influenced compositions are characterized by their catchy melodies, swinging rhythms, and improvisational flair. Joanna's music has received widespread critical acclaim, with many critics praising her inventive use of harmony and rhythm. The Guardian has described her music as "exquisitely crafted" and "full of surprises," while The Times has praised her "impressive range of styles and moods." Joanna's music has also been recognized with several awards, including the British Composer Award and the Ivor Novello Award. In addition to her work as a composer and arranger, Joanna is also a dedicated music educator. She has taught at several institutions, including the Royal Academy of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

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