Richard Iacona

Richard Iacona is an Adjunct Professor of Music Theory, Jazz Piano, and the American Popular Song at Long Island University, affiliated with the School of Performing Arts. He holds a B.S. from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and an M.A. from Long Island University.

Educations:

• B.S., University of North Carolina at Pembroke
• M.A., Long Island University

His expertise spans music theory, jazz piano, American popular song, composition, and orchestration. As a composer, arranger, conductor, and pianist, he has contributed extensively to film, television, recordings, and live performance. His work reflects deep engagement with the Great American Songbook, jazz traditions, and contemporary commercial music.

His body of creative works includes choral arrangements, big band recordings, film scores, and commercial jingles. He has composed for television (e.g., 12 Corazones), arranged for major artists (Celine Dion, Chaka Khan), and contributed to Woody Allen films. His publications with Carl Fisher, Smart Chart Music, and CL Barnhouse reflect national recognition.

Professional Affiliations:

• Member, ASCAP
• Member, Local #802 American Federation of Musicians

Richard Iacona leads The Bad Little Big Band and has served as arranger for The Rainbow Room Orchestra and Omni Music Library, producing jingles for K-Mart, Sears, Acura, and Telemundo. His lectures, such as 'Riding The Rainbow' on Yip Harburg, highlight his scholarly engagement with American songwriters.

Though no formal advisees are listed, his influence extends through performance, mentorship, and industry leadership. He has no listed scientific awards, but his career is marked by sustained artistic excellence and cross-medium impact.