Clinicians
Richard Fischer
Dr. Richard Fischer, Distinguished Professor of Music, is in his 36th year as director of bands at Concordia University Chicago, River Forest, Ill. 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.
Dr. Fischer conducts the Wind Symphony and University Band. He teaches basic and advanced level conducting courses, the Introduction to Music Education course and observes student teachers.
Since Fischer's arrival in 1974, the Wind Symphony has played concerts in 43 states and Canada. In May 2001, the Wind Symphony toured Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia. During May, 2005 and in May, 2009 the ensemble toured China for three weeks. The Wind Symphony performed at the 24th National Conference of the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) in 1987, the 2003 Illinois Music Educators Conference and has recorded eleven 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, including the communications director for the World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles in preparation for the 1995 conference in Hamamatsu, Japan. Since 1988, 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.
Fischer's professional affiliations include the College Band Directors National Association, World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles, Music Educators National Conference, Illinois Music Educators Association, and the National Band Association.
Dr. Richard Fischer has been a member of Concordia University ChicagoÕs Foundation Board since 2003. He resides in River Forest, Illinois. He is married to Kathy (Õ77 CUC grad) and his children are Joy, Julie and Jonathan.
