Guest Artists

Wei-Ting Kuo

Wei-Ting Kuo will once again perform as the violist of the Ames piano Quartet and will present a master class for the string students on April 26, 2026

Iowa State University Guest Clinician- Dr. Janet Galván

Dr. Janet Galván has empowered and inspired choral conductors, choral singers, and educators nationally and internationally. She has contributed to the invigoration of the choral art through innovative programming, staging, rehearsal techniques, and choral conducting workshops at Ithaca College, where she was the Director of Choral Activities. Her singers are noted for creating a deep connection with audiences and many of her former students are now conducting university and professional choirs.

Ned McGowan standing in front of an instrument and bright orange wall

Ned McGowan- February 23-27, 2026

Stephen O'Baker

Stephen's career has encompassed diverse roles as choir director, church organist, and accompanist throughout various communities. In 2013, he became Director of Music at Bethany Lutheran Church in Spencer, Iowa, where he also started a ukulele group, a children’s ensemble, a string scholars program, and developed several software applications to help make the process of arranging and coordinating the music for all these groups more efficient.

Fall 2025

Heartland Marimba Quartet

The Heartland Marimba Quartet founded in 2016 by marimba soloist Matthew Coley, has performed over 150 concerts. Dedicated to showcasing American composers, the group also embraces global works, and promotes classical marimba in both academic and community settings.

Fall 2025