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British-born Australian, Alice Goldthorpe, has received a merit award in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Music Submissions International Music category for her setting of the French lyrics Les anges dans nos campagnes (Angels We Have Heard on High) for 4-part choir with harp or piano accompaniment.
Each year, the Church invites composers from around the world to submit new works, in an effort to encourage the “development of musical talent and to bring new musical works to light,” says the Church’s website.
“I was really excited to receive the results from Music Manager, Katie Bastian,” commented Alice. “I’m not a well-trained composer, but I do pray for inspiration, and the Lord helps me to write down musical impressions that come to mind through His Spirit.”
During her teenage years, Alice attended the Royal College of Music, London, as a ‘junior exhibitioner’ in cello and piano.
Growing up in a musical family provided the foundation for Alice to develop her talents, as well as her love for music, which she is now passing on to her 3 children.
An avid fan of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, Orchestra at Temple Square, and director/composer Mack Wilberg, in 1999 Alice co-founded the Yarra Valley Ensemble (YVE) with other Church members. In 2011 the YVE expanded into the Melbourne Regional Orchestra (MRO) conducted by University of Melbourne-trained Michele Menzie.
In the MRO Alice has played cello alongside such Church musicians as Scott Hamilton, composer of From the Dust, a respectful Book of Mormon musical performed at the Karralyka Centre Theatre, Ringwood, last year.
“It was the first time the MRO had played in an orchestra pit!” remembered Alice. “Around that time Scott told me that I could compose. I replied, ‘No, it’s too late for me.’ But then I started writing original pieces for orchestra, ensemble instruments and choir. I’m grateful for the influence and encouragement of good people around me.
"At the moment, I’m writing a hymn for consideration in the Church’s revised hymnbook. My admiration for hymn writers has increased 100% ! I think it’s hard to write a hymn unless you’re really inspired. So, I’m praying, fasting and studying the scriptures more intently. So far, I’ve written just rough drafts."
Alice concludes, “What a wonderful opportunity the Church has provided for us to share our talents and faith in Christ."