New Fowler Ctr. director brings multicultural experience | Arts & Culture

The Fowler Center at Arkansas State University has a new director.

According to a news release from ASU, Dr. Wendy Hymes is an accomplished musician and arts administrator.

A Missouri native, Dr. Hymes received her doctor of musical arts degree from Louisiana State University.  Her research interests include intercultural music, flute traditions from around the world and chamber music by diverse world composers.  Her doctoral dissertation resulted in the production of her first solo CD, “African Art Music for Flute.”

Prior to joining ASU, Dr. Hymes has served on the music faculties at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, Jefferson College in Missouri and Louisiana State University.  Her specialties are flute, flute pedagogy, music appreciation, music for children and arts administration.

Previously she was director of development for African Musical Arts, Inc. and served on the board of the Flute Society of St. Louis.

According to Dr. Don Bowyer, dean of the College of Fine Arts:

"Dr. Hymes is a perfect fit for our program, combining her backgrounds in arts administration and performance.  The programs at the Fowler Center are an important part of our mission as a college, providing performances and exhibitions that greatly enhance the education of our students while also providing vital cultural opportunities for the entire region."

Dr. Hymes will have administrative responsibility for the Fowler Center Series and general oversight of the Fowler Center.  The series opener for the 2012-13 season is “Piano Men” starring Jim Witter on Tuesday, September 25, at 7:30 p.m. in Riceland Hall.

Photo provided by Arkansas State University.