Roy L. Klassen, D.M.A.
Choral Music Director
University Concert Choir Conductor
Pacific Chamber Singers Conductor
San Joaquin Chorale Conductor
Sattler Hall, Room 116
Telephone: 559-453-2029
Fax: 559-453-5558
Email: rlklasse@fresno.edu
What classes do you teach?
- I teach in the music department and have served as music department chair. I conduct the University Concert Choir, Pacific Chamber Singers and San Joaquin Chorale (a community/alumni-based auditioned choir). I also teach conducting courses and maintain a full private vocal studio.
Education
- B.A., vocal performance, Occidental College, Eagle Rock, CA
- M.A., vocal performance, California State University, Los Angeles, CA
- D.M.A., choral conducting & performance, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ
- Lifetime California State Teaching Credential
- Private study in voice -
- Dr. Howard Swan, Occidental College
- Mona Paulee, California State University, Los Angeles
Share why you teach at FPU
- I am in my 32nd year of teaching at Fresno Pacific University. I chose to teach here because it was a school I had attended in my undergraduate studies. After arriving here as a professor, I found it was a nurturing, growing community of people who not only love the Christian environment but have also committed themselves to excellence in all areas of study. My background in music education seemed to fit wonderfully into the vision of the school so I have felt comfortable keeping the traditions of choral excellence and musical integrity alive here on campus.
Scholarly interests
- I am a life member of the national organization American Choral Director's Association (ACDA) and have participated and attended yearly conventions and festivals. I have also been an adjudicator in selective ACDA sponsored festivals throughout California. Their scholarly journal is received as part of my membership. While I have not submitted articles for publication, I keep up with the current thinking and discoveries in choral education.
Honors and awards
- Horizon Award, Fresno Arts Council, 2009
- Honor Choir Director, Hong Kong, China, 2009
- Honor Choir Director, Kanto Plains, Tokyo, Japan, 2002
- President's Distinguished Service Award, 1997
Professional and service experiences
- I am choral director at two area churches and have been involved in church choir leadership since I was 18 years old. I have also been vocal soloist with numerous symphony orchestras throughout California, and I sang in the New York City Opera Company chorus for two Los Angeles tours.
