Music Library Special Collections: Paul Brink

The Paul Brink Collection consists of items donated by his family. Materials include original, arranged, and edited works in the following formats: manuscript scores and parts, manuscript reproduction scores and parts, engraved scores and parts created with a variety of notation software programs. Also includes, sketches, early editions, incomplete works, a few programs and reference materials used for composition or arranging.

Access to the collection is available upon request. Please get assistance at the first floor help desk or email us.

Dr. Paul Robert Brink (1938-2020) was born in Indianapolis, IN on January 10, 1938. As a youth he studied and performed on trombone. He received a Bachelor of Music degree in theory and composition from the Jordan Conservatory of Butler University; a Master of Music and Ph.D. in theory and composition from Ohio State University where he was also an instructor of music theory. Brink came to the University of Louisville as Assistant Professor of Theory in 1966. In 1979 he became Professor of Theory and was Associate Dean from 1975-1998 (Acting Dean from 1990-1992). In addition, he was a charter member of the Committee for the Grawemeyer Award for Music Composition and in 1992 became the director of the Music Award through 2004, shaping the processes and procedures that are in place presently. He was the recipient of the University of Louisville School of Music’s Distinguished Services Award in 1995 and 1996.

            As a composer, Brink wrote in a variety of genres, including choral, orchestral, concert band, chamber and solo music. He has had performances from the Louisville Orchestra and other collegiate and professional ensembles and musicians. He is also a prolific arranger and editor, creating many editions and arrangements (primarily for concert band) of well-known classical repertoire. Brink died on January 29, 2020 at the age of 82.

To access materials in this collection please contact the Director of the Music Library.