Matthew Tipton has been the music director of the Guardians of Harmony since 2009. He holds a bachelors degree in vocal and instrumental
music education from Ball State University where he was a member of the prestigious
Chamber
Choir for five years. He has over 25 years experience directing various ensembles in schools, communities and churches.
A member of competing quartets over the years, many recognize Matt as the tenor of his current quartet,
Right on Q, the 2010 Pioneer District Champions. Prior to that,
he was the lead in Border Crossing for over 9 years. Matt joined the Barbershop Harmony Society in 1980 and has competed in
international chorus competitions 9 times. He makes his home in Sterling Heights with his wife and three daughters.
Associate Director Michael Hartrick has been singing a cappella music in the barbershop style since 1994. He joined the Rochester Chapter
in 2000. The chapter soon recognized Mike's musical talents and he served as the Rochester Chapter's assistant director until taking over
frontline responsibilities of the Heart of the Hills chorus (prior to its merger with the Guardians of Harmony) in 2009.