Dr. Donald Leslie Russell has an Associate Diploma

and a Choir Master's Diploma from the Royal Canadian College of Organists.  He has a PhD in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (U.S.A.) and is a Professor in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Carleton University (Ottawa, Canada) where his research focuses on the biomechanics of musical performance. 

Donald Russell is an active member of the Royal Canadian College of Organists, Ottawa Centre, and an Adjunct Professor of Music at the University of Ottawa.  He is active as an organist, chorister and composer in the Ottawa area.

Donald Russell was born and raised in Nova Scotia.  He began composing at the age of eight and his musical passions, evident in both composing and performing, have only grown with time.  This devotion to music and the arts  has both nourished and supported his successful academic career.  The symbiotic blend between arts and science generated many creative ideas and pushed his high standards higher and higher.  His compositions span many styles and much of his music is intended for use in the church.  Recently, his dedication has resulted in the publication of his works by Anchorhold Creations.  Psalm 23 was his first published composition.

"It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge." (Albert Einstein)

Donald Russell gratefully acknowledges his teachers Mervyn Games (organ and conducting), David MacDonald (organ), Mark Cummings (clarinet), Ruth Barrie (voice), Janet Leffek (piano), Oriole Aitchison (piano), Jean Desmarais (piano), and Dr. Maya Badian (theory, harmony, counterpoint, fugue, analysis and composition).

Donald Russell is happily married to Dr. Theresa White, a highly regarded biochemist, and they have two wonderful children, Emily and Aiden.  His hobbies include reading, canoeing and traditional Okinawan karate.