Classical music has been an important part of Joan Armatrading’s life since childhood. Alongside her work as a singer songwriter, guitarist and producer, she has always had a deep love of orchestral and classical composition.
In recent years that lifelong passion has found expression in large scale orchestral and choral works.
Symphony No. 1
Joan Armatrading’s Symphony No. 1 received its world premiere at London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall on 24 November 2023, performed by the Chineke! Orchestra conducted by Andrew Grams.
The four movement symphony marked a major milestone in Joan’s musical career and fulfilled a long held ambition to compose for orchestra.
A second orchestral performance of Symphony No. 1 will be given by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra at the CBSO Centre, Birmingham, as part of The King’s Trust 50th Anniversary Concert in September 2026
Homeland
In 2025 Joan completed her first choral work, Homeland, commissioned by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.
The work was premiered at Symphony Hall Birmingham in December 2025, performed by the CBSO Orchestra and Chorus.
Homeland reflects Joan’s deep affection for Birmingham and its people.