The BDAA Hall of Fame ~ Paul Phillips
PAUL E. PHILLIPS - 2010

  Paul Edward Phillips’ fascination and love for Russian and Ukrainian folk music began in the late 1950s. Having never seen a "real live" balalaika, he decided to build his own from wooden mouse crates harvested from Galveston, Texas' medical center. Eventually he was joined by a small group of enthusiasts of Russian folk music and from this beginning evolved the Houston Balalaika Society of which he was a founder and artistic director.
    Paul was also a fixture at the Texas Renaissance Festival from its first year until the 1980s where he presented shows of Gypsy music with a talented trio several times a day. Paul was also a charter member of the BDAA and had attended many conventions where he led jamming workshops and creatively contributed to the nightly jam sessions.
    His book, Music From Old Russia and Elsewhere, meticulously compiled and expanded over the years, has introduced and helped untold numbers learn the melodies, chords and harmonies of traditional Russian and Eastern European folk songs. Jamming was one of Paul's favorites and through his efforts he has helped others become more confident musicians.
    Paul Phillips was multifaceted in his musical life. From his beginning in the Houston Balalaika Society as a domra player he has expanded his expertise and enabled others to participate in a great variety of experiences. Through the many ensembles he had organized, Paul made significant contributions to promoting the cultural heritage of Russian instrumental folk arts in Houston and beyond. They include organizing the Gypsy Camp at the Texas Renaissance Festival, the Caravan ensemble, and being instrumental in organizing the Uzori Folk Dance Ensemble.
    Paul Phillips passed away on November 13, 2010 at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy of music, insight, teaching and learning.


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