“Australian Choral Composer, Paul Jarman’s (b. 1971) passion for composing, conducting, performing and educating is well known all over the world. His music and lyrics are thought-provoking and powerful, bringing to life the stories and the histories, both ancient and new, that define who we are and how we belong in this world. Paul’s songs include many of the the most popular choral works in Australia.”
“He has worked extensively throughout Australia, Europe, Asia, and North America, with theatre productions, dance ensembles, Aboriginal-Anglo Celtic performance groups, choirs and orchestras; from concert halls to remote communities, schools and institutions, festivals, and special events. His music is a broad sweep across the Australian landscape, moving seamlessly between the past and the present, illuminating what we value, what we know, and what we hope to achieve as citizens of intellect, integrity and compassion.”
“It has real energy and intention, and he is fearless in the pursuit of the perfect sound, drawing on the western instruments he plays (including the piano, clarinet, harmonica and saxophone) but specialising in ethnic wind instruments from all over the world.”
“As a warm and engaging conductor and educator, he has that rare ability to bring people together, to empower and interpret stories meaningfully, meticulously researching his subject to create music and lyrics with an evocative power well beyond the piece itself – a place of genuine reflection on the values held within it. This reciprocation , the inspirational partnership, is something participants never forget. This is a formidable gift which he uses with humility and grace.” Julia Ditterich – 2015
(Julia is an artist, librarian, teacher, Aboriginal Liaison Officer and poet)
Recent Events
Composer in Residence Emmanuel College Gold Coast
From Tuesday, 1st April 2025 to to Wednesday, 2nd April 2025,Paul is delighted to be working with the school on a new commissioned work with music teacher Sally Lockett..
Artist in Residence - Dulwich College/Dehong International CHINA
From Saturday, 1st March 2025 to to Friday, 28th March 2025,Paul is delighted to back in China working across four campuses in Shanghai, XI'an and Beijing...
HICES Music Festival - Guest Conductor
From Sunday, 11th August 2024 to to Wednesday, 14th August 2024,Paul is delighted to return to HICES as the guest conductor 2024. Finale work will be his new anthem, 'This is Our World' from the song cycle 'World of Tomorrow'...
Testimonials
Jenny Moon head of choral & Voice Hillcrest Christian College
In 2011 our college commissioned Paul Jarman to write a piece for two of our treble choirs. The entire process, from the initial student workshop through to the world premiere of Freedom From Fear in July 2012, was creative, collaborative and exciting...
Kate Albury - Choral Director Brisbane Grammar and Gondwana Voices
Paul Jarman is a champion for young and aspiring composers and has truly changed the landscape of Australian choral music...
Jonathan Todhunter the King's School
Paul gave so much and so willingly. He has inspired a cohort of students to aim higher, have courage in their hopes and to connect with their dreams through a powerful composition...