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EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

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Dr. Fields has initiated, directed and enhanced band programs in his decade as a Music Educator in both High School and Middle School settings. During his time as a part of a Title I school, he worked with students mainly from a low income background who had not had any former musical training. Many of his students also had learning differences, which required a flexible and creative approach to teaching music. He applied for and received multiple grants for instrument purchases to build a 100+ piece band program, teaching music to over 200 students. Through partnerships with the community and other educators, he organized performing arts showcases incorporating band, dance, drama and chorus and inviting the students to dream bigger dreams for themselves. Dr. Fields has also conducted Master Classes both internationally and at the college level and has conducted guest lecturing, speaking engagements, and professional coaching. Dr. Fields has a passion for culturally responsive pedagogy, curriculum development and addressing structural and historic inequities in education. Richard Fields' educational background includes:

  • Doctorate in Music Education (Teachers College, Columbia University)

  • Master's Degree in Music Education (Teachers College, Columbia University)

  • New York State Advanced Teacher Certification (Brooklyn College)

  • Master's Degree in Classical Trumpet Performance (SUNY Purchase)

  • Bachelor's Degree in Classical Trumpet Performance (SUNY Purchase)​​​

EDUCATION & CONSULTING SERVICES

K-12 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Dr. Fields possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience from his almost decade teaching in the public school system. He can provide professional development for band teachers at all levels K-12 including:

  • How to design a new band program, including locating grants and other funding opportunities

  • How to recruit students and grow an existing band program

  • Best practices for differentiating music instruction to match the needs of students at varying levels of previous music education, including accomodating students with learning challenges

  • Organizational systems to promote efficiency as a band teacher

  • Band program curriculum design and planning

Dr. Fields can provide lectures and master classes at the collegiate level on a variety of topics including:

  • ​Orchestral brass performance including repertoire selection and practice techniques

  • Best practices in Music Education

  • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Music Education

LECTURES & MASTER CLASSES

KEYNOTES & CONFERENCES

Dr. Fields can offer keynote and conference presentations on a variety of topics related to his work including:

  • ​Urban Music Education: Challenges & Opportunities

  • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Classical Music

  •  The Experiences of Black Male Musicians in Classical Music and Music Education 

  • Best Practices for Beginning & Growing Band Programs

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