<p>John Buehler, the artistic director and conductor of the Cannon Beach Chorus, with his wife, Susan. The couple lives in Cannon Beach.</p>

Born and raised:

I was born, raised, educated and taught music (for 40 years) in high schools and college in Kansas.

Lives now:

I live with my wife, Susan, in Cannon Beach.

What instruments do you play and how long have you played?

I am, primarily, a conductor/teacher, but I am trained as a singer and used to play trombone in college. Im learning guitar, now.

Do you play with any local groups?

I am the artistic director and conductor of the Cannon Beach Chorus.

What made you get involved with music?

My grandmother was a very able musician, and I had great teachers who encouraged me in studying music and most of all, I was encouraged by my parents.

What does being director of the Cannon Beach Chorus involve?

I think it takes a significant amount of study and formal schooling to be the conductor of the Cannon Beach Chorus (or any music group), and it also takes a very deep love of making great choral music together with other people. The short answer is that I select all the music and lead the weekly two-hour rehearsals. I am also deeply involved in raising musicianship skills and vocal development of the members.

What song makes you crank up the volume?

I like most types of music, but I turn up the volume of the jazz/rock/fusion tracks on my iPod when Im on the treadmill.

How do you occupy your time when you arent playing or directing music?

I spend a great deal of time preparing for my work with the CBC, and I also work at Cannon Beach Vacation Rentals (in guest relations). Our children and grandchildren and their activities and interests are also big parts of our lives.

What do you like about living on the coast?

We love most parts of living here, but we especially enjoy being part of a small, somewhat artistic community where nearly everyone is interested in raising the quality of life. Its a great place to live.