Richard York

Richard York serves as an Adjunct Instructor of Clarinet at the Department of Music, Wittenberg University, a position he has held since joining the faculty in 1977. He maintains an active performance career as principal clarinetist of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra for over two decades and frequently collaborates with regional ensembles including the American Wind Symphony Orchestra and Oberlin Opera Theater.

His educational foundation includes a B.A. from Oberlin College, where he studied under George Wain and performed as soloist with the Oberlin Orchestra. Additional training was received from distinguished musicians including Stanley Hasty (Eastman School of Music), Thomas Peterson (Cleveland Orchestra), Achille Rossi (Indianapolis Symphony), and Buffalo Philharmonic members Allen Siegel and James Pyne.

Mr. York's professional focus centers on Music Performance with specialized expertise in Clarinet and Chamber Music. His performance repertoire spans orchestral, wind ensemble, and solo works, demonstrated through appearances as soloist with the Springfield Symphony, Clarence Summer Orchestra, Springfield Concert Band, and various high school ensembles. He regularly presents chamber music concerts at regional museums and academic institutions, emphasizing collaborative artistry and technical mastery of the clarinet.

As an educator, York mentors undergraduate clarinet students at Wittenberg University, guiding instrumental technique and musical interpretation. His dual career as performer and pedagogue has established him as a significant figure in Ohio's classical music community, bridging professional orchestral standards with academic instruction.