LOVE ILLUMINATES | Joanna Gill

Description

Introducing the first recording devoted to the sacred choral music by award-winning Scottish composer Joanna Gill.

Joanna studied Composition under royal composer Paul Mealor, then moved to London to continue her studies in Composition for Film and Television at Kingston University.

Joanna was commissioned by His Majesty King Charles III to compose a new Scottish folk-song as part of the Honours of Scotland ceremony which took place on 5th July 2023 at St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh. 

Her work “A Song of Thanksgiving and Dedication” was composed as a tribute to Aberdeen University chancellor Queen Camilla and showcased the Doric language. This song was performed at the ceremony by mezzo-soprano Karen Cargill, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and Ayoub sisters.

Joanna’s music has been performed by the BBC Singers, on BBC Radio 3, and in many prestigious venues including London’s Royal Albert Hall. Joanna is at home writing both choral and symphonic music, and has a natural ability to capture a range of moods and styles in one piece.

Paul Mealor writes ‘The music of Joanna Gill is one of intense spiritual joy, of heart-warming harmonies and of lively rhythmical spirit that is both deeply personal (almost autobiographical) and ‘all embracing’ – music from one soul to all others. Her work is unashamedly romantic, unpretentious and, like an open hand, a gift to all who perform or hear it.’