Mike Ross

Michael (Mike) Ross has worked for Madison Youth Choirs in some capacity since 1997 – as an accompanist, as an instructor, as a clinician, as a guest coach, as a conductor, and as Artistic Director since 2003. While he holds both BMus and MMus degrees in Music Education from UW-Madison, he first became excited about teaching from his parents (both teachers), through his many music teachers and mentors, and as a counselor and song-leader at Rainbow Day Camp late in the 20th century.

Mike has done all sorts of music-related stuff: has played piano since he was 6 years old, led honor choirs throughout the US, was the choir director and music department chair at Madison West High School, music directed many shows, has written incidental music for plays (highlight: Anne Frank with CTM) and tons of choral arrangements, and has accompanied countless rehearsals. Special skills include children’s birthday parties (with his colleagues at 3 Fun Guys), playing the guitar while standing on a moving bus, and ridiculous jokes.

He loves Ella Fitzgerald, Motown music from the 60’s, Blood Sweat and Tears, and Bach (OK, he loves more than this, but it’s a start!). His wife and two grown-up children are his primary focus and he has been committed throughout his life to finding ways to connect young singers to music.