An ISU professor and band director who has composed music for opera singer Simon Estes has been named the new chairman of the Department of Music in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Michael Golemo was named chairman of the department after he was nominated by faculty and approved by Liberal Arts and Sciences Dean Michael Whiteford. Golemo is scheduled to begin his duties July 1.

“I look forward to working with the music department and faculty,” he said.

Golemo has been at Iowa State for six years teaching music courses and administrating the university’s eight bands. Along with teaching, he also composes, arranges, directs and performs with the saxophone.

“I wear lots of hats,” Golemo said.

Golemo has recently composed and arranged music that has been performed by Simon Estes, the Ames Municipal Band and the Des Moines Symphony. He has played the saxophone with Natalie Cole and Ray Charles.

Golemo has directed the Iowa State Wind Ensemble for several years. He has also led performances by the group around the United States and Europe.

As the chairman of the Department of Music, Golemo will manage budgets, evaluate faculty, develop course schedules and raise funds for the department.

Golemo said he hopes to raise more money for scholarships. He also said he hopes to increase communication with public school conductors and increase the number of people interested in music.

“There will not be enough hours in the day,” Golemo said, joking that he will continue to perform his old duties as director of the bands along with his new responsibilities.

Golemo replaces Sue Haug, who had been chairwoman for more than 15 years.

Golemo said he is a little nervous about the challenge of replacing Haug and said he has a “lot to live up to.”

Haug could not be reached for comment.