Artistic Staff

Nathan Poole was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, and came to Winnipeg in 2000.  Originally intending to pursue orchestral conducting, it was here in Winnipeg that Nathan met and worked with Henry Engbrecht of the University of Manitoba, and found a real passion for the intense, human emotions that are inherent to the choral instrument.

Nathan was a member of the University of Manitoba Singers for six years, working under the direction of both Henry Engbrecht and Dr. Elroy Friesen, founding artistic director of Prairie Voices.  During his time in this ensemble, Nathan travelled across Canada and abroad, experiencing and learning about the rich world of choral music.  He has had the unique opportunity to work under the direction of respected conductors such as Robert Sund, Martin Neary, and Maria Guinand.  In the autumn of 2009, Nathan performed as a part of Dr. Elroy Friesen's specially-formed Winnipeg Soloists Choir to present Finnish composer Einojuhani Rautavaara's Vigilia (All-Night Vigil).

Recently, Nathan has served as choir director of First Presbyterian Church, and as assistant conductor to Yuri Klaz of the Winnipeg Philharmonic Choir.  In 2009, Nathan was appointed Director of Music in Worship at Westminster United Church.  Apart from his commitments in choral music, Nathan enjoys his work as teacher to his studio of violin and piano students.

He is thrilled, honoured and excited to be at the helm of Prairie Voices as it enters its eleventh season!

Aaron Loeppky Accompanist