Guest Conductor Dr. Richard Fischer at RLHS

Concordia University Chicago’s Conductor Dr. Richard Fischer spent the morning with the RLHS musicians and Mr. Gullicksrud.   This is an incredible opportunity for our students, and we are grateful to Dr. Fischer.  To quote Mr. G:  “He’s kind of a big deal!!”  Please read more about him:

Dr. Richard Fischer, Distinguished Professor of Music, has served as director of bands at Concordia University Chicago since 1974. He received the bachelor of music education and master of music degrees from De Paul University and the doctor of musical arts degree from Michigan State University. He has also studied at Cornell College and the University of Northern Colorado. Fischer conducts the Wind Symphony and University Band. He teaches basic and advanced level conducting courses as well as various music education courses. Fischer also observes student teachers.

Since Fischer’s arrival in 1974, the Wind Symphony has played concerts and church services in 43 states and Canada. In May 2001, the Wind Symphony toured Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia. During May, 2005 the ensemble toured China for three weeks. This ensemble performed at the 24th National Conference of the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA), the 2003 Illinois Music Educators Conference and has recorded ten internationally sold compact discs of sacred wind music. The Wind Symphony has commissioned and premiered numerous wind compositions. In the fall of 1995, the ensemble was invited to perform two concerts at Orchestra Hall in Chicago.

Fischer is in demand internationally as a guest conductor, clinician and adjudicator. He was named to the “A Team” of University Professors by the Chicago Tribune in 1994. He has held positions with numerous professional organizations, such as the communications director for the World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles in preparation for the 1995 conference in Hamamatsu, Japan. Since 1989, Fischer has served as music director for Ballet LeGere’s production of the Nutcracker Ballet. For 17 years, he served as the assistant conductor of the Symphony of Oak Park and River Forest.

In March 2013, Dr. Fischer was the recipient of Concordia University Chicago’s first ever Endowed Chair marking an exceptional milestone for the 150 year old university. The Fred and Jane Wittlinger Endowed Chair for Music Performance will allow Dr. Fischer to continue sharing his passion for music through teaching and conducting while also serving as a resource to the wider church and international community.

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