Diane Rauser, Accompanist

An Illinois native, Diane Rauser was born in Sterling, IL, and raised in nearby Rock Falls. An accomplished pianist, Diane earned the John Phillips Sousa Award while still in high school, and then received an Associate of Arts degree from Sauk Valley Community College in northern Illinois. She has been a church organist and pianist for over 35 years, and continues in that capacity at Resurrection Lutheran in Ankeny. Before moving to Ankeny in 1985, she taught piano and organ.

Shortly after moving to Ankeny, Diane became accompanist for Steve Cartenson's high school choirs, traveling with them on four trips to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City. While there she also performed at St. Bartholomew's Cathedral, and at the United Nations. Carstenson and audiences have high praise for Diane's technical skills and expressive musicality on the keyboard.

In addition to choir concerts, Rauser has been extensively involved in music in various church, school, and community groups, performing for musicals, band solo competitions, and All-State choir competitions, to mention a few.

Diane works as a Financial Associate for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Diane's husband, Larry, is retired from John Deere. In addition to two sons, their family now includes two grandsons.