Paul Frehner

Paul Frehner is an Associate Professor at the Don Wright Faculty of Music, Western University. As a contemporary composer and Director of CEARP (Western's electroacoustic music production studio), he bridges traditional composition with cutting-edge electronic music technologies.

His research interests focus on:

• Existential and environmental themes in concert music
• Hybrid electroacoustic and acoustic composition
• Avant-garde orchestration and chamber ensemble writing
• Interdisciplinary collaborations with filmmakers and visual artists
• Contemporary opera/oratorio development
• Innovative approaches to live electronics integration

Recent compositions demonstrate his expertise in diverse formats including vocal works, string orchestra pieces, and multimedia collaborations, with premieres across North America and Europe. His work has been featured by major ensembles like:

• New Juilliard Ensemble
• Esprit Orchestra
• Soundstreams Canada
• Stuttgart Chamber Choir
• Toronto Symphony Orchestra
• Montreal Symphony Orchestra

Scientific awards include:

• K.M. Hunter Artist Award (2012)
• Claude Vivier National Award (2007)
• Multiple international competition prizes
• Genesis Prizes for Opera finalist
• OAC nomination for Johanna Metcalf Prize

As Director of CEARP, he leads Western University's state-of-the-art electroacoustic music production initiatives, fostering innovation in:

• Fixed-media composition
• Live electronic performance
• Sound design for multimedia
• Contemporary music technology education