Betsy Flanagan
Betsy Flanagan obtained her Bachelor’s in Music Education (summa cum laude) from Illinois State University in 1981. She earned her Master’s degree from Illinois State University in Choral Conducting and in Vocal Performance, and has completed her Doctoral coursework in Choral Conducting & Opera from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana where she was appointed an Academic Fellowship position on staff and worked under Don V Moses, world-renowned conductor and Founding Director of Austria’s Classical Music Festival for 25 years.
Betsy has acted as clinician for women’s, men’s, and mixed choirs across the United States. Betsy formed the Southcentral WI Joyful Ministry Singers, travelling on 3 separate tours to the British Isles and Central Europe, singing at the great cathedrals and military bases. She was Assistant Director for the Illinois State University Madrigal Singers on 3 separate tours to the British Isles and Central Europe as well. While on staff at Illinois State University, Betsy directed the Treble Choir, taught voice studio, and was the vocal musical director for Showboat where she directed William Warfield singing “Ol’ Man River.” Betsy has also performed in many venues such as the Peoria Civic Opera, the Illinois Shakespeare Festival Singers, and was the Music Director of the St. Louis Theatre Group. She is passionate about the importance of music for all ages, and is the founder of Musical Pathways Foundation Inc in Waunakee WI, serving families with newborn to seniors in memory care for over 17 years.
Betsy currently resides in Palm Desert with her husband Larry. She is honored to be directing the Sandblaster Chorus!
