He studied composition with Miriam Gideon. He is a classically trained bass, a long-time synagogue cantorial soloist, choral singer and occasional conductor. He has sung for many years with Philip Brunelle’s renowned VocalEssence in Minneapolis, and previously with the Dale Warland Singers. Mr. Winikoff has had the privilege of performing with such notable conductors as the late Robert Shaw, Hugo Weisgall, Hugh Wolff, Bobby McFerrin, Simon Halsey, Eric Whitacre and Helmuth Rilling. He is a member of the American Composers Forum, and the Guild of Temple Musicians.