Dr. Paul Berkolds

Born in Seattle, WA to immigrant parents from Latvia, Paul Berkolds attend the University of Washington and the Thornton School of Music at the University of Southern California, the latter from which he received a Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance.

Repertoire from his 40-year career includes music from a wide range of genres and styles - opera, oratorio, musical theater and solo recitals, as well as contemporary and experimental works. Highlights include 900 performances of Andrew Lloyd Weber’s Phantom of the Opera, and his work as featured soloist in the 2014 GRAMMY winning recording of Harry Partch’s microtonal work Plectra and Percussion Dances (Microfest Records). 

Performing and promoting Latvian folk and art music has been a significant focus throughout his career. Latvian projects have included concert performances, choir directing, music festival organization, and teaching both in Latvia and in the US. In 2024 Berkolds was awarded the Trīszvaigžņu ordenis (Order of the Three Stars), by the President of Latvia for his lifetime achievements promoting Latvian culture in the diaspora.