2010 Local Legends
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast committee is pleased to recognize outstanding
community leaders who represent Dr. King’s dream: a testament that a dream is a
growing reality.
Philip Brunelle
This Local Legend has devoted his career to sharing the rich history of wonderful, yet undiscovered, choral music.
Philip Brunelle, founder and artistic director of VocalEssence, is a renowned conductor, choral scholar and performer. Under his leadership, VocalEssence embraces choral music of all genres.
Twenty years ago, VocalEssence launched WITNESS, an initiative that celebrates the contributions of African Americans to our shared American heritage through concerts, recordings and education. This year alone, 7,500 students in 40 schools will participate in WITNESS.
Philip began the program because he noticed the lack of African-American classical music performed by choirs. He embarked on a mission to find and share these great works. Twenty years later -- in collaboration with the African-American community, a full-time staff member and WITNESS school participants -- Philip continues to shine a light on rarely-performed music by African-American composers.
He reaches out to African American composers who benefit from encouragement, exposure and nurturing, but also inspire others and serve as positive role models. Philip believes that investing in the culturally relevant art and helping to build self-esteem and community assets can lead to long-term social change.
An excellent musical piece knows no racial boundaries – it crosses borders, spans the centuries and touches the hearts of its listeners. In recognition of Phillip’s love of music, his commitment to youth and his passion for collaboration, the General Mills Foundation and UNCF are pleased to honor Philip Brunelle as a 2010 Local Legend.
