Paul Berkolds

Paul Berkolds is a Lecturer in Music at Scripps College, part of The Claremont Colleges. Born in Seattle to Latvian immigrant parents, he holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance from the Thornton School of Music, University of Southern California. His 40-year career spans genres including opera, oratorio, musical theater, and contemporary works. Notable achievements include 900 performances in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera and a 2014 GRAMMY-winning recording of Harry Partch’s Plectra and Percussion Dances. He is dedicated to promoting Latvian music through performances, choral direction, festival organization, and teaching.

Education:

• Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance, Thornton School of Music, USC
• University of Washington (undergraduate details unspecified)

Research & Focus: Berkolds emphasizes cross-cultural musical preservation, particularly Latvian folk and art music. His work bridges traditional and experimental compositions, reflecting his commitment to diasporic cultural representation. Recent projects include collaborations in Latvia and the U.S., blending pedagogy with performance.

Awards:

• Trīszvaigžņu ordenis (Order of the Three Stars) from Latvia’s President (2024) for lifetime achievement in promoting Latvian culture abroad.

Advising & Grants: No specific grants or student advising details are provided in the text. His contributions focus on performance and cultural advocacy.