Ralph Manuel, born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, in 1951, is a distinguished sacred composer and accomplished pianist. Currently residing in Dallas, Texas, Manuel is celebrated for his diverse body of work, including vocal solos and duets, keyboard solos, duets, trios (six hands), over 100 anthems, and two major works for chorus and orchestra inspired by Brazilian themes.

Manuel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music from Oklahoma City University and a Master’s degree in Church Music from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, with further studies at B.H. Carroll Theological Institute in Irving, Texas. His education profoundly influences his compositions, which are primarily intended for spiritual and religious purposes. Manuel and his wife spent 24 years in Recife, Brazil, where he was a music faculty member at the North Brazil Baptist Theological Seminary and served as a Baptist missionary. This period in Brazil significantly shaped his musical output.

In 2004, Manuel became the Minister of Music and Worship at Heritage Baptist Church in Annapolis, Maryland, a role he held for 13 years. His works are performed in churches worldwide, including the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. Manuel’s deep commitment to creating spiritually inspired music continues to influence his prolific contributions to sacred music globally.