Dr. Paul Watkins

Biography

Acclaimed for his inspirational performances and eloquent musicianship, cellist Paul Watkins enjoys a distinguished career as a concerto soloist, chamber musician, and conductor. He was appointed Principal Cellist of the BBC Symphony Orchestra at the age of 20 and has since performed regularly as a concerto soloist with major orchestras worldwide, including eight concerto appearances at the BBC Proms. Watkins is a dedicated chamber musician, having been a member of the Nash Ensemble from 1997 until 2013, and he joined the Emerson String Quartet in 2013. In 2014, he was appointed Artistic Director of the Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival in Detroit. Watkins has won the Leeds Conducting Competition in 2002 and has conducted major British orchestras in the USA, Europe, Australia, and Japan. He has made 70 recordings, including 18 solo albums with various well-known labels. At Yale School of Music, he teaches studio to graduate-level cellists, coaches chamber ensembles, and directs Yale Cellos. He further enriches the music community through his performances and leadership in chamber music.

Research Interests

Experience