Phil Murphy

Conductor Of Encore From 1994 - 2009

As one of London’s best known musicians, Phil Murphy has made a substantial impact within the community. He is renowned for his contributions as music educator, performer, conductor and adjudicator, with versatility which finds him as comfortable with the genres of classical, theatrical, jazz or Klezmer music, working as easily with young students as with seasoned musicians.

Phil has been most influential in his role of educator. Many of his former students working around the world in the field of music acknowledge Phil as a major role model in their career decisions.

Today, Phil continues to enjoy performing around the province. His Big Band and small ensembles are frequently heard throughout the community. For nineteen years he was principal clarinettist for the London Symphony Orchestra. He has been a featured soloist with many orchestras, and has performed on numerous CDs. Audio examples of some of Phil's performances are
1 - Lets Dance - Phil Murphy Big Band 1983
2 - After You've Gone - Phil Murphy Quartet July 1993.
3 - Mozart K581 Mvt.3 - Phil Murphy and String Quartet 1967
4 - This Masquerade - Phil Murphy Quintet (Tenor Sax) June 1998 
5 - Abi Gezunt - Phil Murphy & The Hot Latkes Klezmer Band 1998
5 - Strike Up The Band - Phil Murphy Big Band Sept. 2007                                             

Phil’s contributions to the community are extensive. He has worked with theatre for many years. His interest in the London Kiwanis Music Festival has never waned after retiring as a music educator in 1989. He has traveled across North America as an adjudicator, clinician and lecturer. In 1999 he was recognized on the Mayor’s New Year’s Honour List for outstanding contributions to the arts in the City of London. In 2007 he was elected to the London Music Hall Of Fame.

For fifteen years Phil brought this musical depth to Encore...The Concert Band, a performing group of about 60 musicians. Many have been his peers in music education or are former students. Over 400 fine musicians have played, laughed and learned with Phil during this period of time, and for that we all say a heartfelt “Thank You".

On May 31, 2009, Phil retired as Conductor after our 15th Anniversary concert.