Joy Effiong

I’ve been encouraged to go for less conventional ideas and to take risks, and I think that has given me the confidence to be less hesitant in experimenting. Also, working with musicians has been really good for learning how to be considerate when writing for performers, and also being comfortable to show pieces before they’re ‘perfect’.

My favourite performance experience was performing Carmina Burana in Blackheath Halls with the first year choir. It was a lot of fun and I didn’t expect us to sound so good! We haven’t put on a composition concert yet, however I really liked watching the ‘Rude Health’ concerts put on around the campus by older composition students last term. I’m really excited for CoLab this year and for working with new people. The massive list of project choices was startling so I’m also excited to hear about other people’s experiences afterwards.

The diversity within Trinity Laban makes it feel welcoming, and makes interacting with other students really interesting day-to-day. I think it’s really important to be able to relate to different kinds of people, particularly when you’re collaborating and working together.

I’ve lived and studied in London my whole life and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else! I love being well connected to everything I need, and particularly the musical opportunities and concerts that are constantly available.

I’d sum up my Trinity Laban experience as: hard work and lots of noise!