Rowell ’ s father grew to become one of his strongest musical influences , providing standards , expectations , and a methodical and disciplined approach to acquiring skills as well as a wonderful model of personal musicianship .
“ There was always a sensitivity and expressiveness to dad ’ s teaching . He engaged his choirs in the study of great literature , addressed technical problems with musical solutions , and performed with understanding , joy , musical ownership and passion .” Influenced by his father ’ s cousin Jean ( a graduate of Ithaca College and University of Michigan ), Rowell , in 1960 as a freshman , entered Ithaca College and the orbit of the legendary Walter Beeler .
“ Mr . Beeler ’ s influence was not just on a person , or an ensemble ; it was an entire wind band culture ! His musicianship , ears , standards and expectations -- ensemble tone quality , remarkable sense of phrase , impeccable clarity and rhythmic precision , were rivaled only by his devotion to students , commitment to music education , depth of knowledge , pedagogical wizardry and passion for music .
Walter ’ s expectations were at a consistently high level and yet he never asked for something that he couldn ’ t demonstrate himself -- either while singing or performing on his baritone horn . Students were always early to his rehearsals out of respect for his mentorship and the opportunity to make music in his magnificent ensembles . The stage was silent as he entered the hall and walked proudly down the aisle to begin rehearsal . All business . Economical stick technique , keen ear , clear vision of his inner ear musical intentions . Walter ’ s teaching inspired each musician and empowered students with musical ownership , while serving as an important teaching model rivaling that of Mark Hindsley , William D . Revelli and Frederick Fennell .
Please allow me to share an important ‘ life lesson ’ that I learned while playing in Mr . Beeler ’ s ensembles : In an effort to stress the importance of discipline , consistent and reliable performance practice , Mr . Beeler often said , “ you must realize that no matter how many or how few people are in your audience , there will always be someone with a trained ear and you must be prepared to perform for that person .” Walter ’ s advice served me well as my skill set and reputation provided opportunities to advance within the profession . Each position I held throughout my career came as a direct result of someone observing my teaching , conducting and / or musicianship .”
In 1964 , Rowell was called into the military as a member of the United States Military Academy Band at West Point .
“ For the next three years , I lived with and learned from several wonderful young men most of which , like myself , were fulfilling our military obligation . My mind and my ears were influenced by outstanding musicians , many of whom went on to careers in major symphony orchestras as well as distinguished teaching careers in many of today ’ s most prominent music schools . Performing for Generals ’ Dwight Eisenhower and Omar Bradley , distinguished and prominent guests , Army-Navy Football games , Armed Forces Day parades in NYC , and Pass and Review at the Academy were all most memorable experiences but it was the opportunity to make music with young professionals , from all