B.Mus. and M.Mus., University of Illinois
Ph.D. in Musicology, University of Michigan
D.M.A. in Voice, Northwestern University

John E. Giles III composed more than 125 songs, 50 choral pieces, eight cantatas and a viola sonata.

He was a member of the Chicago Lyric Opera chorus for twelve years, and served for fifteen years as lay minister of music at the Unitarian Church of Evanston. He also taught music. In the final year of his life, although under hospice care, Giles continued to compose, conduct and teach.

Among his last projects was a compact disc of his own songs entitled Songs for All Seasons.

"John had a personal motto, ‘Singing empowers, music heals,’" Joe Murry, his companion and partner, told the Chicago Tribune.

John E. Giles III died of AIDS in Evanston, Illinois at the age of 46 on August 22, 1996.

—Nurit Tilles

WORKS:

John E. Giles III: Complete Art Songs, Duets, and Vocal-Instrumental Chamber Music
published: 1996 (publisher unknown)
source: Meadville-Lombard Theological School

UNCOMPLETED WORKS:
Unknown

WRITINGS:
Unknown

DISCOGRAPHY:
Songs for All Seasons (label and release date unknown).

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

• "Vocalist, Composer John Giles III, 46, of Evanston" (obituary) by Kenan Heise, Chicago Tribune, August 24, 1996.

PERFORMING RIGHTS AFFILIATION:
Unknown

RESOURCES:
Unknown

MUSICAL EXECUTOR:
Unknown

OTHER CONTACTS:
Unknown