Joe St.Johanser was born in Cheltenham , Gloucestershire and educated at Brighton Hove and Sussex Grammar School and University College London. His surname is of Austrian origin, though both parents were English. He has had a long career in computer software engineering and management consultancy (BSc Economics 1963, MSc Computer Science 1972) and still practices occasionally as an expert in computer software related litigation.

He began composing in 1997 (BMus 2001), studying with Dr. Steve Goss and Professor Sebastian Forbes at Surrey University,and is an alumnus of the Canford Composers Workshop , taught by Malcolm Singer (composer and Music Director of the Menuhin School). All of his pre 2010 compositions, have received performances and the responses from audiences and critics alike have been extremely positive.

Of 'Spem', his first opera, one reviewer said 'When I heard the first violin humming the main theme of the first movement I knew Joe had a hit'

Of 'The Tempest', his second opera, one reviewer (Words and Music) said 'Everything about this production was excellent with many striking touches. The highly effective set was a wrecked ship bedded in real sand; the tops of the ribs curling over gave the impression of huge breaking waves... the small orchestra (under Francis Griffin) played the music beautifully; it was atmospheric, attractive and served Shakespeare’s text and its range of emotions well... The casting of Ariel as 3 spirits was a master stroke, each subtly characterised and responsive to Prospero and weaving trios with beautiful and ethereal sound... Prospero, who commands the magic island...(Tim Baldwin)... was outstanding and totally in command of the drama and music - a truly powerful performance. Guildford Opera were brave to premiere this work...it is certainly worth exploring by other companies...', NODA said 'a strong cast of excellent singers made for a very enjoyable evening. '

Joe's composition style is not tonal in the classical sense. His harmonic language is often not functional. However he does create and make extensive use of memorable melodies and motifs. The overall effect is quite different from that of much typical, randomly dissonant abstract modern music. His influences are many. He is much influenced by pop music. He particularly admires Puccini, Janacek, Britten and John Adams.

He is a full member of the Incorporated Society of Musicians. As well as composing he translates opera libretti (Cosi fan Tutte, 2003) directs opera for Starlight Opera, works as a singing teacher in Woking, Surrey Singing Lessons in Woking and has performed over 30 principal roles as a singer and actor (now retired).

We welcome enquiries for permission to perform his music. Scores are available for perusal. Fees are not prohibitive and some sponsorship may be possible for performances by small opera companies.

All his operas are eminently suitable for chorus based companies. The music is sophisticated but not excessively difficult. Audiences are very appreciatve of the drama and the approachable music.