Deborah Simpkin King, Ph.D., Deborah Simpkin King, Ph.D. Deborah Simpkin King, Ph.D., is a conductor, program builder and new music advocate, whose career bridges artistry, innovation, and mentorship. A dynamic presence in the Manhattan choral scene, she serves as Chair of the New York Choral Consortium, and is a frequent conductor with Lincoln Center projects, most recently the choral director with Jeanine Tesori’s opera Blue. She serves the national and international music community through guest conducting, thought leadership, and extensive body of published work.