Shelley Rich

Shelley Rich is the Associate Director of the Community Music Institute (CMI) at the University of Oregon's School of Music and Dance (SOMD), where she plays a key role in expanding pre-college music opportunities for string students and teachers across Oregon. She previously served on the UO faculty from 1997 to 2005 and returned in Fall 2021 to revitalize CMI programs, including the Suzuki Strings Program and Chamber Players. In Fall 2022, she began teaching violin lessons and graduate-level courses in the Violin/Viola Pedagogy Specialization, enhancing mentorship opportunities.

Her research and professional interests include string pedagogy, violin and viola performance, Suzuki method training, and community music education. She has been instrumental in establishing impactful programs such as the Northwest Suzuki Institute and the Northwest Advanced String Camp, which attracted students regionally. A dedicated educator, she has taught numerous pre-college students who have gone on to successful music careers, won competitions, and performed with professional orchestras.

Shelley Rich has held leadership roles in professional organizations, serving as president of both the Oregon and Arizona chapters of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA), significantly expanding their outreach and programming. Her work is supported by a generous donation enabling the launch of an annual Summer Orchestra Camp for Strings at UO starting in 2023.

• Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance – Eastman School of Music
• Master’s Degree in Violin Performance with Long Term Suzuki Training – Northern Arizona University

As an active performer, she has played with the Eugene Symphony, Oregon Festival of American Music, Flagstaff Symphony (where she served as Assistant Concertmaster), Ballet West Orchestra, and international ensembles including the Heidelberg Castle Festival Opera Orchestra and Tanglewood Festival Orchestra. Her career blends performance, pedagogy, and community engagement, making her a central figure in string education in the Pacific Northwest.

She mentors graduate students in pedagogy and leads initiatives that connect the university with K–12 and community music programs. Through the CMI, she oversees ensemble programs and teacher training, reinforcing the SOMD’s commitment to statewide music education access. No scientific publications or formal awards are listed, but her contributions are evident in program development, performance, and educational leadership.