"Dr. Richard M. holds degrees in composition from the University of New Orleans, Tulane University, and the University of North Texas. He is the recipient of a number of awards, including an ASCAP Grants to Young Composers Award for his Symphony for Wind Ensemble, over 30 ASCAP Awards, and a Mississippi Artist Fellowship for his Symphony #2. His works have been performed at Carnegie Hall, the Montreaux International Jazz Festival, Symphony Space in New York, the New Orleans Contemporary Arts Center, the Society for Electro-Acoustic Music in the United States, the International Computer Music Conference, and throughout the United States and Europe. He has served as President of the Southeastern Composers' League, President of the College Music Society Southern Chapter and President of the NACUSA Mid-South Chapter

He has performed on bass across the United States, in South America, and in Europe with a number of ensembles, including Harry Connick, Neil Sedaka, the 5th Dimension, and the New Orleans Pops. He was formerly Principal Bass in the Starkville/Mississippi State University Orchestra.

Richard retired as Professor Emeritus of Music at Mississippi University for Women in May, 2016. Prior to joining the MUW faculty in 1988, he served as director of the University of New Orleans Jazz Band.

Richard has taught a wide variety of music courses from grades 2 through graduate level. He is passionate about helping students to understand the inner workings of music to increase their knowledge and enjoyment of the art form.

30+ years teaching experience in Music Theory, Composition, Music History, Commercial Music, and General Music. I have performed professionally all styles of music, from Rock, Pop, Jazz, Classical, and beyond.

As he is now retired, Richard is fully flexible in scheduling lessons. Please contact him about your needs. Look forward to hearing from you." less...