Brisbane based composer, Rachel E. Merton began writting music from as early as 6 years of age. Her composition studies began at the Young Conservatorium at the age of 12 for 5 years with Stephen Leek, and continued studies with Dr Stephen Cronin for her Bachelor of Music degree in Composition which she received in 2005 and a Graduate Diploma in Music Studies. During that time her achievements included placings in the ASME Young Composers Competition 1997-2001, the A.G. Francis Composition Prize in 2002, 2004 Fellowship of Australian Composers Award, 2006 National Keys Festival Composer Competition and various commissions.

Her works have been aired on 4MBS, ABC Classic FM, and Bay FM; they have also been performed in Brisbane, Adelaide, and Sydney  including ensembles such as The Song Company, Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, The Firm Concert series and the Zephyr Quartet.

Her current commissions include works for Capalaba State College Concert Band, and the vibrant and exciting electric violin acts, Strings on Fire and VAMP.

As well as composing Rachel teaches piano, percussion and drums at Cleveland Music Studios, Redland City.

*Photography by Nicole Turner, www.photographybynicoletoday.com