JOE MATHAWAPHAN
Joe is a London-based Thai composer and horn player currently studying at King’s College London
Composer Spotlight Q&A
How did you get into composition?
Honestly, I can't really pinpoint one specific moment that got me into composition. I remember writing loads of random and embarrassing music with my friends in a school wind orchestra. It somewhat grew from there. Playing a lot of interesting pieces during that time made me wonder if I could create a masterpiece like that one day.
What sort of music do you like to write?
My musical interests vary over time, but I love writing music that involves a deep understanding of a specific subject, one that requires some research before writing the first note on manuscript paper. Connecting and transforming that knowledge into a piece of music is what I enjoy most.
What excites you most about being part of opus1?
Besides the privilege of working closely with the members of Britten Sinfonia, it is the chance to meet fellow composers and share our diverse perspectives on composition that I am very much looking forward to.
What 3 pieces of music would you have on your desert island?
1. Uematsu: Aerith’s Theme (from Final Fantasy VII)
2. Yoshimatsu: Symphony No.6 “Birds and Angels”
3. Strauss: Ein Heldenleben, Op. 40
What is the best snack?
Crisps, especially Sour Cream & Onion. (You can never have enough sodium!)
About Joe
Joe Mathawaphan is a London-based Thai composer and horn player. Recently, two of his works were premiered by the KCL Symphony Orchestra after he won their annual composition competition in 2023. He was also the second-prize winner of BETA Quartet’s Call for Scores, leading to the premiere of his work in Fairmont, West Virginia. In 2021, he participated in the Thai Youth Wind’s music programme, where his music was awarded first prize. In addition to his focus on classical compositions, he has also written music for short films and musical theatre productions.
He is currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Music at King’s College London (KCL), where he has received compositional advice from Thomas Hyde and Edward Nesbit. Concurrently, he has received private tuition from respected Thai composers such as Narongrit Dhamabutra and Kitti Kuremanee.
