U of M School of Music's Oct. 13 convocation to feature keynote speaker Paul Phoenix of The King's Singers

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (06/29/2010) —Paul Phoenix, acclaimed tenor with The King’s Singers and an avid spokesperson for musicians’ ability to engage diverse audiences will give the University of Minnesota School of Music fall convocation program keynote address at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 13, in Ted Mann Concert Hall, 2128 Fourth St. S., Minneapolis. This event is free and open to the public.

Phoenix began his musical training at age nine as a chorister with the St. Paul’s Cathedral Choir, during which time he made several successful recordings as featured treble, including the Geoffrey Burgon award-winning theme to the BBC’s 1979 adaptation of John le Carré’s novel “Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy.”

After graduating from the Royal Northern College of Music in 1991, Phoenix worked as a freelance singer for six years enjoying a varied existence, from backing Elaine Paige in concert, to coaching singing to the boy trebles of Westminster Under School. In September 1997, he joined The King’s Singers and travels the world with that group, singing in some of the finest concert halls, churches and cathedrals in the world. His two-day residency at the school will include working with the Men’s Chorus and meeting with students, faculty and university administrators.

One of the world’s most celebrated vocal groups, The King’s Singers have a packed schedule of concerts, recordings, media and education work that spans the globe. Championing the work of young and established composers, they remain consummate entertainers, a class act with a delightfully British wit. From Gesualdo and György Ligeti to Michael Bublé, The King’s Singers are instantly recognizable for their spot-on intonation, their impeccable vocal blend, the flawless articulation of the text and incisive timing.

School of Music Director David Myers says, “Paul is a charismatic speaker and world-class professional musician whose real-world experience and expertise will inspire our students about both the challenges and possibilities for success in 21st century music careers.”

Phoenix’s convocation keynote will address the importance of community engagement in relation to the continuing U of M School of Music initiative to integrate public engagement into its curriculum and research. In addition to other events, Phoenix will meet with the school’s Engaged Department Leadership Team. Supported by a $10,000 grant from the University of Minnesota’s Office of Community Engagement, the school has undertaken a career enhancing effort for aspiring professional musicians of the 21st century: preparing them, through projects, internships and entrepreneurial efforts, to become engaged artist-leaders among the increasingly diverse societies and communities in which they live and work. The 2009 School of Music Fall Convocation featured renowned conductor of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Marin Alsop.

Established in 1902, the University of Minnesota School of Music offers a dynamic, comprehensive program to more than 500 music students in undergraduate and graduate programs, led by a world-class faculty of more than 50 artists, scholars and teachers. The School of Music presents more than 400 free concerts per year. For a complete schedule of events, visit www.music.umn.edu or call (612) 626-1094 for a brochure.