Sir Karl Jenkins (born 1944 in Penclawdd, Wales) is one of the most performed living composers in the world, known for large-scale choral-orchestral works that draw on classical, world music and jazz traditions. He rose to international prominence with Adiemus (1995) and The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace (2000), the latter now exceeding 3,000 performances across 50 countries. Knighted in 2015 for services to composing, he has also written for the Coronation of King Charles III and holds 17 gold and platinum disc awards.
The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace reached number one in the Classic FM Hall of Fame, the first time a living composer has claimed the top position.
Jenkins conducted a Carnegie Hall concert in New York on 19 January 2026, featuring Stabat Mater and Symphonic Adiemus.
Jenkins conducted a series of Christmas concerts at Symphony Hall Birmingham, The Bridgewater Hall Manchester and the Barbican London, featuring music from his festive collections Stella natalis and Joy to the World.
BBC Four broadcast a documentary profile 'Karl Jenkins: The Composer behind the Moustache' on 14 July 2024, marking his 80th birthday.
Decca Records signed Jenkins to an unprecedented lifetime recording deal, the first time the label has made such a commitment to any artist.
A concert by the world-renowned composer and conductor Karl Jenkins. Classical and contemporary music performed by the artist.
A concert of music by Karl Jenkins, the renowned British composer, at St. Anton Church in Augsburg.