Paul was an American composer and organist. He was organist, cantor and choir master at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

He appeared at Lincoln Center in New York City, with the National Symphony Orchestra, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at Orchestra Hall and with the Minnesota Orchestra. In addition, he played recitals in churches and cathedrals here and abroad. He was in great demand for his hymn festivals, which are his legacy as a church musician.

He is considered to be one of the most influential organist and Lutherans of his time. His most famous choral work is the Advent motet "E'en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come".

Paul passed away in 2009.