Paul Salamunovich

Paul Salamunovich's life was a testament to the power of place and tradition. For over six decades, his name was synonymous with the Los Angeles-based choir he first sang in as a boy: the St. Charles Borromeo Church choir, which evolved into the world-touring Los Angeles Master Chorale. A protégé of the great Roger Wagner, Salamunovich absorbed a philosophy of choral sound that was rich, resonant, and spiritually direct. As its longtime music director, he honed the ensemble into an instrument of remarkable clarity and warmth, specializing in the vast landscapes of Gregorian chant and Renaissance polyphony while also championing contemporary composers. His work reached far beyond the concert hall; he was a sought-after clinician, a beloved educator at Loyola Marymount University, and the conductor for major film scores, including 'Braveheart.' His Grammy nominations were a nod from the industry, but his true achievement was maintaining a sacred musical lineage in the heart of modern Hollywood, proving that ancient sounds could have a vibrant, living home.