Bob Mensel, baritone, was raised outside Washington, D.C. where he benefited from the city’s rich cultural heritage. Before heading off to Brigham Young University, he had already sung choral/orchestral masterworks with renowned conductors Eugene Ormandy, Julius Rudel, and Antal Dorati. These experiences, among others, nurtured his appreciation for classical music and propelled him to degrees in music history (B.M. from Utah and Ph.D. from Oregon) and choral conducting (M.M. from Oregon). He dedicated his career to community and church music, and his groundbreaking dissertation defined “Affinity Music” and documented the creative processes and community impact of new choral commissions by gay, lesbian, and feminist choruses. Now retired from full-time music making, he nonetheless stays active as a vocal coach, arranger, choral clinician, and (occasional) conductor. He and hubby Dale (29 years and counting) split their time between Portland and Palm Springs.