Richard Lloyd Giddens Jr.

Richard Lloyd Giddens Jr. is the Director of Jazz Studies and an Associate Professor at California State University, Fresno in the College of Arts and Humanities. He teaches courses in Jazz Orchestra, Jazz Combo, Jazz History, Jazz Improvisation, Jazz Pedagogy, and Jazz Bass Lessons.

• Education: BFA and MFA from California Institute of the Arts, studied at The New School for Social Research's Jazz and Contemporary Music Program

Giddens' professional biography highlights his transition from full scholarship student in New York City to internationally recognized bassist, performing globally with artists like Charlie Haden and Wadada Leo Smith. He has headlined at major jazz festivals including Jazz em Agosto (Portugal) and Saalfelden Jazz Festival (Austria).

As a Tzadik and Orenda Records artist, he has contributed to multiple albums including his debut Mimosas and projects by Daniel Rosenboom and Burning Ghosts. His work has been critically praised for combining avant-garde experimentation with strong rhythmic foundations.

• 2018 California Arts Council Grant

Giddens' teaching portfolio includes jazz ensemble direction, improvisation instruction, and pedagogy training. His performance history includes notable tours with the Off-Broadway show STOMP and collaborations with artists across diverse genres including Robert Glasper, Mary Halvorson, and Ravi Coltrane.