Submitted Photo Nathan Bowles is the son of Ken and DeVera Bowles, two prominent members of the vocal department at Minot State University. He has followed in their footsteps and is making a name for himself, both at the school and through his performances with the Western Plains Opera.

Nathan Bowles, one of the lead performers in this weekend’s “Into the Woods,” has a wonderful baritone voice. This rich instrument is put to good use in the show as his character, “The Baker,” sings a variety of songs. Some are snappy, some jolly, some melodious and touching. Bowles handles them all with skill and heart.

Now a 22-year-old senior at Minot State, Bowles is the son of Ken and DeVera Bowles. This fact makes him someone of special interest to lovers of fine singing in Minot as his parents have been in the vocal department for Minot State University for the last 26 years. Both have doctorates in singing, and both have been active and much beloved singers in the area.

The family legacy as musical leaders might have ended, though, had it not been for the youngest Bowles. Nathan Bowles has two older brothers who are doing very well, but they did not choose to follow their parents into vocal music. However, Nathan Bowles did choose music or rather, he suggests that music chose him. He never really thought of another life. He is immersed in the study of music, both during his formal studies and in his free time.

As for his voice, he said, “I found it a couple years ago while studying with my dad.”

Nathan Bowles had been a good singer before this discovery, but quickly improved to the point where, for instance, he was holding his own with operatic professionals in Western Plains Opera’s “The Barber of Seville,” or winning the Minot Symphony’s Senior Honors competition, which means he will be the solo artist with them in an upcoming concert. The list of his solo successes quickly lengthens.

Naturally, Nathan Bowles plans to pursue graduate school and/or a professional career in singing, which could be performing in musicals like “Into the Woods” or operas like “The Barber of Seville.” He could also be a choral director as he has a great interest in that type of song too.

Audience members will easily spot this fine young singer as his career takes off. He has always had a great head of copper-red hair, and in recent years he has added a full beard of the same color.

In “Into the Woods,” Nathan Bowles is joined by exceptional singer/actresses Maren Coffin, Claire Romich and Kaylee Capp. Many other leading characters and supporting characters, 22 in all, complete the cast. The show will be featured at Ann Nicole Nelson Hall located at Minot State University on Jan. 25 and 26 at 7:30 p.m. and Jan. 27 at 3 p.m. For tickets, visit the Western Plains Opera website or call 858-3191.