Winner of Carol Composition Competition

We are delighted to share with you the winner of our Carol Composition Competition: Transeamus by Asher Joyce. We had the privilege to sing this incredible carol at our Christmas Carol services, including at the Imperial College Candlelight Service.

Asher Joyce is an Australian composer and conductor now based in London. A full scholarship recipient at the Royal College of Music, their studies have thus far encompassed a long residency with the Sonora Quartet, collaborations with emerging artists Rieko Makita, Alex Mackinder and Christina Achim, and the commission of several solo, chamber and large ensemble works. In 2025 they won the RCM Fanfare Competition with their work for brass ensemble, On the nature of inspiration, which was subsequently performed at the College’s graduation ceremonies.

Asher studies composition with William Mival and has particular interest in advocating for the vitality of contemporary music in music education. Alongside their studies they work as a choral educator, a role that allows them to introduce children across London to the joys of contemporary vocal music. Educated initially in the diverse Australian musical tradition, Asher’s music is recognised and loved by global audiences for its storytelling, inviting warmth and considered simplicity.

Asher is honoured to be a Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Scholar supported by the Charles Richardson Stewart Scholarship for Composition at the RCM.

I am so honoured to be the winner of Imperial College Chamber Choir’s inaugural carol competition. The workshop process with the choir was incredibly special to be a part of, and I can’t wait for the performance in December! I’m also looking forward to seeing all the wonderful carols this partnership with the RCM produces in years to come.