Education
- M.A., Choral Conducting, Western Michigan University
- B.A., Vocal Music, Olivet College
Research Interests
- The science of individual singing technique and how it impacts a choir
Les Rowsey, M.A.
- Adjunct Professor of Women’s Chorus and Voice
- The School of Ministry, Media & the Arts
Education
- M.A., Choral Conducting, Western Michigan University
- B.A., Vocal Music, Olivet College
Research Interests
- The science of individual singing technique and how it impacts a choir
Les Rowsey serves as adjunct professor of Women’s Chorus at Cornerstone University and brings over 30 years of experience directing high school choirs.
Professor Rowsey received his Bachelor of Arts in music from Olivet College and his Master of Arts in choral conducting from Western Michigan University. He served as a choral director at Benton Harbor High School, Portage Public Schools and Jenison Public Schools.
His choirs, ensembles and soloists have received numerous first division ratings at district and state festivals. His groups appeared at various conferences and conventions on eight occasions, and the Jenison High School Chamber Singers were invited to perform at the Michigan Youth Arts Festival 21 times.
An active member of the Michigan School Vocal Music Association (MSVMA), Professor Rowsey has served as an adjudicator; district manager; host of numerous district and state events; and director of State Honors Choirs in 1991, 2000, 2001 and 2012. He was honored with both Jenison Public Schools Teacher of the Year and a State Board of Education Finalist for Michigan Teacher of the year in 1991-92. He was named MSVMA Teacher of the Year in 2000, and in 2013, he received the Western Michigan University Pioneer Music Educator Award for teaching excellence.
Professor Rowsey is the founder and director of the West Michigan Community Chorale.
Hobbies
- Record collecting, including popular music (1950s to 1970s) to choral music (1940 to present)
- Vegetable gardening
- Owns a classic car
Licenses and Professional Memberships
- American Choral Directors Association Life Member
- Michigan School Vocal Music Association Emeritus
