Richard Adams

Richard Adams is a Professor of Composition/Theory at the Irving S. Gilmore School of Music, Western Michigan University. He holds a D.M.A. from the University of Michigan, an M.M. from Yale University, and a B.M. from Louisiana State University. His work integrates classical and popular musical elements, praised for blending rock's physicality with classical structure. Adams has been commissioned by prominent ensembles like the Memphis Symphony and Albany Symphony, with recordings on Koch International Classics and Albany Records.

He has taught at Oberlin Conservatory and the University of Michigan, and participated in residencies at the MacDowell Colony, Aspen Music Festival, and the Charles Ives Center for American Music. His distinguished teachers include William Albright, William Bolcom, and Jacob Druckman.

• Awards: American Academy of Arts and Letters, ASCAP, Society of Composers Inc.
• Professional Activities: Fellowships at Fontainebleau American Conservatory and Center for Advanced Composition Studies.

Adams' research focuses on hybrid musical forms and multimedia collaborations. His composition studio at WMU supports emerging composers exploring interdisciplinary approaches to music.