Getting to Know Ben Owen

Get to Know Our

DIRECTOR OF MUSIC

Ben Owen

September 2020

Q. What are your favorite aspects of being a music director? A. For me, one of the most attractive aspects of directing church music is creating “meaning-full” worship services. I love choosing hymns, choral anthems, and instrumental music that accentuates the service’s scriptural and thematic content. When the music, scripture, prayers, and preaching are in tune with each other, a deeper and broader worship can be achieved that extends beyond going through the motions. I also really enjoy working with church members!

Q. How did your education/background/interest in music lead you to ministry? A. I grew up singing in the choir loft at my hometown church where my

Mom was the music director and I’ve always had a music ministry job on the side since my high school years. I’ve been feeling a call to full-time music ministry for a few years and decided to act on it after graduating with my master’s from the University of Iowa. I like the fast paced nature of church music (we do a LOT of music) and that it is all sung or played for a reason.

Q. How do you like Cincinnati so far? A. I love it!! I have already visited the zoo and I’m a little obsessed with

Jungle Jim’s. Living in Fairfax is the perfect blend of the quiet small town feel and proximity to the church/downtown for me. My partner, Paul, is excited to move out here in May after he finishes his master’s degree.

Q. Is there something people might be surprised to learn about you? A. I had a barbershop quartet in college! I can also tell you anything you need to know about: 1. The temperance movement’s influence on choral music; 2. Choral Singing in Greenland.

Q.Who has had the greatest impact on your life? A. Faith wise? The entire staff at Ewalu Bible Camp in Strawberry Point,

Iowa where I worked for four summers. David Glenn-Burns, Tim

Ensworth, Sherrie Ilg, and Jonathan Heifner are all important pastors in my life. Musically? Maureen Pollpeter and Karl Wolf at my hometown high school, Tim Stalter and David Puderbaugh at the University of Iowa, and my parents. Personally? Definitely Paul.

Q. What is your favorite thing to do on your day off? A. I love to get in my car and get lost. There’s a lot of interesting stuff tucked away in the city or on the back roads.