Paul Jenkins Obituary, Death Toronto, ON – The city’s music community is mourning the loss of Paul Jenkins, a distinguished organist and tenor who passed away recently at the age of 61. Known for his work as the organist at Blessed Sacrament Church in Toronto, Jenkins had a long and respected career in both liturgical and early music circles.
Jenkins was a key figure in the revitalization of the pipe organ at Blessed Sacrament, leading efforts to rebuild and upgrade the instrument using the Phoenix Organ system. His vision and dedication played a central role in transforming the church’s musical offering. His involvement with Phoenix Organ Builders was widely appreciated, and he was considered both a friend and a collaborator by those in the organ-building and classical music communities.
In addition to his regular work at Blessed Sacrament, Jenkins often played at St. Michael’s Cathedral in Toronto and contributed his talents to major church events and liturgical services. He also performed with several of Canada’s leading early music ensembles, including the Toronto Consort and the Aradia Ensemble. As both a keyboardist and a trained tenor, his versatility and musical depth left a lasting impression on audiences and fellow performers alike. Jenkins’s musical roots ran deep. A choirboy in his youth, he grew up immersed in sacred music and choral traditions.
Friends from his early years recall his talent and passion for music developing from a young age, and many followed his journey as he became a respected and influential figure in Canadian music. His passing follows a long illness that had recently taken a more acute turn. Those who knew him describe his loss as a significant blow to the Toronto music scene, especially among those connected to church music and early music performance. Paul Jenkins leaves behind a legacy of musical excellence, community involvement, and mentorship. As tributes continue to pour in, his memory will be honoured by the many who heard him play, sang with him, or worked alongside him to preserve and elevate sacred and classical music in Canada.
