Karl Jenkins

Welsh Composer and Musician

Karl Jenkins is a Welsh composer and musician whose work spans various genres including classical, jazz, and new-age. Born on February 17, 1944, in Penclawdd, Swansea, Wales, Jenkins initially made his mark in the world of jazz as a member of the band Nucleus and later with the progressive rock group Soft Machine in the 1970s. His transition to classical music composition brought him international acclaim, particularly with the release of "Adiemus: Songs of Sanctuary" in 1995. This album featured the distinctive sound of melodic vocalise (wordless vocals) and achieved crossover success, topping classical charts around the world.