My Story...
My earliest memories are singing. I remember just being unexplainably attracted to music. After my mother passed away when I was 10 years old, a young college student who I only know as "Joy" gave me a guitar. I didn't ask for it, it just arrived. I didn't choose it, it chose me. Ever since then, the guitar has been my companion through the ups and downs of life.
Fast forward, I am now a successful guitarist, music educator, method book author and music clinician.
I have spent a lifetime pursuing excellence driven by a passion to bring the guitar into the mainstream of music education. This was the result of my experiences in high school where I wanted to be part of the "music program." My music teachers accepted me because of my talent and drive, but they didn't have much to offer me in terms of instruction on my instrument because the guitar was not included in their professional training.
After a successful career as a touring and recording musician, I accepted a teaching position at the newly founded Natomas Performing and Fine Arts Academy in Sacramento CA serving a diverse student population. On my first day in my new role as "classroom music educator," I found myself in a completely empty room, with no formal training, a $150.00 start-up budget, and twenty or so students looking to me for a musical education. I pointed out the absurdity of the situation while sitting on the floor since we didn't even have chairs, and I promised them I would give it my best shot and I hoped they were up for the adventure! We sang and played body percussion on that first day. I encouraged them to bring any musical instruments, in fact they could bring pots and pans to bang on for all I cared, something was better than nothing. After that, I spent the majority of my start-up budget on used chairs at the State of California surplus warehouse and spent the rest on a few Manhasset music stands.
Over the next ten years I leveraged my passion and ability to improvise (both musically and as a creative teacher) to develop an award winning music education program at the Natomas Performing and Fine Arts School. I wrote grants for equipment and training, I networked, I did what was needed to bring a quality music education to my students. I established what was undoubtably one of the first high school digital recording classes in the United States. Be sure to visit the "Videos and Recordings" page not so much to hear me, but to hear my students, because that is the real measure of my success.
After teaching for 10 years in the classroom without a credential, or college degree of any kind, I found myself in Cincinnati Ohio where my wife had accepted a faculty position with the University of Cincinnati. I discovered the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati and I decided to enroll as a freshman and finally get my degree in music education! I remember the faculty asking me "why would you want to go to school now after all you have accomplished?" I explained that while I was very accomplished, I felt my self-education was a bit like Swiss Cheese, it's was good, but it had some holes and that I wanted to fill in those holes.
After graduation, I started work on writing The Best Guitar Method to bridge the worlds of the traditional music educator and professional guitarist. I knew that the current method books available didn't bridge these two worlds. In fact, most method books were just the same poor material with a different cover, either starting with single note sight-reading on the E string, or ignoring standard notation in favor of chords. No matter the approach, they only offered musical examples, none offered real instruction which is exactly what traditional music educators need, because it is very likely that their own professional training did not adequately prepare them to provide guitar instruction.
That's my story. The recurring themes are passion, creativity, commitment and excellence in music education for all students.
Fast forward, I am now a successful guitarist, music educator, method book author and music clinician.
I have spent a lifetime pursuing excellence driven by a passion to bring the guitar into the mainstream of music education. This was the result of my experiences in high school where I wanted to be part of the "music program." My music teachers accepted me because of my talent and drive, but they didn't have much to offer me in terms of instruction on my instrument because the guitar was not included in their professional training.
After a successful career as a touring and recording musician, I accepted a teaching position at the newly founded Natomas Performing and Fine Arts Academy in Sacramento CA serving a diverse student population. On my first day in my new role as "classroom music educator," I found myself in a completely empty room, with no formal training, a $150.00 start-up budget, and twenty or so students looking to me for a musical education. I pointed out the absurdity of the situation while sitting on the floor since we didn't even have chairs, and I promised them I would give it my best shot and I hoped they were up for the adventure! We sang and played body percussion on that first day. I encouraged them to bring any musical instruments, in fact they could bring pots and pans to bang on for all I cared, something was better than nothing. After that, I spent the majority of my start-up budget on used chairs at the State of California surplus warehouse and spent the rest on a few Manhasset music stands.
Over the next ten years I leveraged my passion and ability to improvise (both musically and as a creative teacher) to develop an award winning music education program at the Natomas Performing and Fine Arts School. I wrote grants for equipment and training, I networked, I did what was needed to bring a quality music education to my students. I established what was undoubtably one of the first high school digital recording classes in the United States. Be sure to visit the "Videos and Recordings" page not so much to hear me, but to hear my students, because that is the real measure of my success.
After teaching for 10 years in the classroom without a credential, or college degree of any kind, I found myself in Cincinnati Ohio where my wife had accepted a faculty position with the University of Cincinnati. I discovered the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati and I decided to enroll as a freshman and finally get my degree in music education! I remember the faculty asking me "why would you want to go to school now after all you have accomplished?" I explained that while I was very accomplished, I felt my self-education was a bit like Swiss Cheese, it's was good, but it had some holes and that I wanted to fill in those holes.
After graduation, I started work on writing The Best Guitar Method to bridge the worlds of the traditional music educator and professional guitarist. I knew that the current method books available didn't bridge these two worlds. In fact, most method books were just the same poor material with a different cover, either starting with single note sight-reading on the E string, or ignoring standard notation in favor of chords. No matter the approach, they only offered musical examples, none offered real instruction which is exactly what traditional music educators need, because it is very likely that their own professional training did not adequately prepare them to provide guitar instruction.
That's my story. The recurring themes are passion, creativity, commitment and excellence in music education for all students.
Guitarist
Professional guitarist skilled in many styles of music.
Rock • Blues • Rock-a Billy • Soul • Country • Reggae • Jazz • African • Latin • Musicals • Folk Alternative • Experimental
Visit the "Music" link above to hear me play!
Rock • Blues • Rock-a Billy • Soul • Country • Reggae • Jazz • African • Latin • Musicals • Folk Alternative • Experimental
Visit the "Music" link above to hear me play!
Industry Sponsors
Taylor Guitars
Reverend Guitars
DR Strings
Reverend Guitars
DR Strings
Brian's Equipment
Guitars: Taylor 916CE, Martin OO28NY, Reverend - Jetstream 390, Reverend - Clubking RT, Fender - Stratocaster, Larson - Stratocaster, Crafter - TC 035N Acoustic Electric, Hofner - 12 string electric archtop, Murph - Electric 12 string solid body, Epiphone ES-339, Acoustic - "Nashville High Strung" , Makala Ukelele.
Amps and Effects: Kemper Profiling Amp, QSC K8.2
Amps and Effects: Kemper Profiling Amp, QSC K8.2
Performance Credits
Partial List of Music Festival Performances
Bunbury Music Festival
United Way Annual Fundraising Kickoff
Reno Jazz Festival
Sonoma Jazz Festival
Monterey Jazz Festival (High School Band)
Sacramento Jazz and Heritage Festival
Sacramento Traditional Jazz Jubilee
Napa Jazz Festival
Sacramento Blues Festival
San Jose Blues Festival
Chico World Music Festival
Napa World Music Festival
Reggae on the River Music Festival
Strawberry Music Festival
Truckee Reggae and World Music Festival
New Orleans by the Bay Festival
Napa Valley Cajun Festival
Kerrville Folk Festival
High Sierra Music Festival
Grass Valley World Music Festival
Grass Valley Folk Festival
Northern Rockies Folk Festival
Vancouver Island Folk Festival
Partial List of Venues
Fountain Square Main Stage - Cincinnati, OH
Taft Museum Center - Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati Museum of Modern Art - Cincinnati, OH
Shoreline Amphitheater, Palo Alto, CA
Fillmore Auditorium, San Francisco, CA
Memorial Auditorium, Sacramento, CA
Berkeley Civic Auditorium, Berkeley, CA
Celebrity Showroom, John Asquaga’s Nugget, Reno, NV
MGM Grand, Reno, NV
Sacramento Convention Center, Sacramento, CA
San Jose Convention Center, San Jose, CA
Moscone Convention Center, San Francisco, CA
Partial List of Television Credits
PBS Entertainment Express: performance appearance, Mumbo Gumbo, 1996
Muscular Dystrophy Telethon, performance appearance, Mumbo Gumbo, 1996
CBS “Northern Exposure”: featured song, “The Ring Waltz,” 1995
CBS “Northern Exposure”: featured song, “Lovebirds,” 1995
NBA Sacramento Kings performance appearance, 1995
CBS “CBS This Morning”: performance appearance, 1995
Partial List of Radio Appearances
WNKU "Studio 89" with Tracy Walker, 2014
WNKU "Studio 89" with The Honneycombs, 2010
KYSR “Paul & Phil Christmas Show” Mumbo Gumbo Live Performance, 1998
KPIG “Hog Farm show”, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview, 1997
KVMR “Night Live” 2 Hour live feature broadcast Mumbo Gumbo, 1996
NPR “Car Talk” featured Mumbo Gumbo song: “I'm Driving,” 1995
KRXQ “Ken Allen show,” Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview, 1995
KPIG “Hog Farm show,” Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview, 1995
KRXQ “Ken Allen show”, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview, 1995
KFOG “Fog City Radio,” Mumbo Gumbo live feature performance and interview, 1994
KQED “West Coast Weekend,” Mumbo Gumbo live performance, 1994
KPFA “Larry Kelp Show,” Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview, 1994
Bunbury Music Festival
United Way Annual Fundraising Kickoff
Reno Jazz Festival
Sonoma Jazz Festival
Monterey Jazz Festival (High School Band)
Sacramento Jazz and Heritage Festival
Sacramento Traditional Jazz Jubilee
Napa Jazz Festival
Sacramento Blues Festival
San Jose Blues Festival
Chico World Music Festival
Napa World Music Festival
Reggae on the River Music Festival
Strawberry Music Festival
Truckee Reggae and World Music Festival
New Orleans by the Bay Festival
Napa Valley Cajun Festival
Kerrville Folk Festival
High Sierra Music Festival
Grass Valley World Music Festival
Grass Valley Folk Festival
Northern Rockies Folk Festival
Vancouver Island Folk Festival
Partial List of Venues
Fountain Square Main Stage - Cincinnati, OH
Taft Museum Center - Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati Museum of Modern Art - Cincinnati, OH
Shoreline Amphitheater, Palo Alto, CA
Fillmore Auditorium, San Francisco, CA
Memorial Auditorium, Sacramento, CA
Berkeley Civic Auditorium, Berkeley, CA
Celebrity Showroom, John Asquaga’s Nugget, Reno, NV
MGM Grand, Reno, NV
Sacramento Convention Center, Sacramento, CA
San Jose Convention Center, San Jose, CA
Moscone Convention Center, San Francisco, CA
Partial List of Television Credits
PBS Entertainment Express: performance appearance, Mumbo Gumbo, 1996
Muscular Dystrophy Telethon, performance appearance, Mumbo Gumbo, 1996
CBS “Northern Exposure”: featured song, “The Ring Waltz,” 1995
CBS “Northern Exposure”: featured song, “Lovebirds,” 1995
NBA Sacramento Kings performance appearance, 1995
CBS “CBS This Morning”: performance appearance, 1995
Partial List of Radio Appearances
WNKU "Studio 89" with Tracy Walker, 2014
WNKU "Studio 89" with The Honneycombs, 2010
KYSR “Paul & Phil Christmas Show” Mumbo Gumbo Live Performance, 1998
KPIG “Hog Farm show”, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview, 1997
KVMR “Night Live” 2 Hour live feature broadcast Mumbo Gumbo, 1996
NPR “Car Talk” featured Mumbo Gumbo song: “I'm Driving,” 1995
KRXQ “Ken Allen show,” Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview, 1995
KPIG “Hog Farm show,” Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview, 1995
KRXQ “Ken Allen show”, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview, 1995
KFOG “Fog City Radio,” Mumbo Gumbo live feature performance and interview, 1994
KQED “West Coast Weekend,” Mumbo Gumbo live performance, 1994
KPFA “Larry Kelp Show,” Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview, 1994
Discography
• Guitarist, “Bare Bones” Tracy Walker, Gallimaufry Records, 2014
• Guitarist, “Fun Pak” Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 2009
• Guitarist, “Something in the Water” Chris Webster, DIG Music, 2006
• Guitarist, “Diving’,” Chris Webster, Compass Records, 1999
• Guitarist, “Adventures of Mumbo Gumbo,” Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1997
• Guitarist, “Kerrville Folk Festival 1995 Highlights,” Compilation, Mumbo Gumbo, Silverwolf Records, 1996
• Guitarist, “The Women of Kerrville,” Compilation, Mumbo Gumbo, Silverwolf Records, 1996
• Guitarist, “Driving,” Chris Webster, Lots of Rabbits Records, 1996
• Guitarist, “Big Smiley,” Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1996
• Guitarist, “Believe... A Holiday Wish,” Compilation benefit album for Sacramento AIDS foundation, 1995
• Guitarist, “Deep Soup,” Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1994
• Guitarist, “Mumbo Gumbo,” Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1992
• Guitarist, “Live at The Palms,” Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1990
• Guitarist, “Out Among the Cows,” Compilation, Spydels & 10,000 Cattle, 1989
• Guitarist, “Blue Stereo Light,” Dave Webb, 1984
• Co-producer, audio engineer – “Leap of Faith”, Natomas Charter School Performing and Fine Arts Academy, 2006
• Co-producer, audio engineer – “Electric”, Natomas Charter School Performing and Fine Arts Academy, 2005
• Co-producer, audio engineer – “Equal”, Natomas Charter School Performing and Fine Arts Academy, 2003
• Co-producer, audio engineer – “Teenage Soul for the Chicken Soup”, Natomas Charter School Performing and Fine Arts Academy, 2001
• Audio engineer and assistant producer “The Dream Walker: A Journey Through Time”, Rhythm Magic Records, Sacramento, CA, 1999
• Co-producer “Adventures of Mumbo Gumbo”, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1997
• Co-producer “Big Smiley”, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1996
• Co-producer “Deep Soup”, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1994
• Co-producer “Mumbo Gumbo”, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1992
• Co-producer “Live at The Palms”, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1990
• Guitarist, “Fun Pak” Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 2009
• Guitarist, “Something in the Water” Chris Webster, DIG Music, 2006
• Guitarist, “Diving’,” Chris Webster, Compass Records, 1999
• Guitarist, “Adventures of Mumbo Gumbo,” Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1997
• Guitarist, “Kerrville Folk Festival 1995 Highlights,” Compilation, Mumbo Gumbo, Silverwolf Records, 1996
• Guitarist, “The Women of Kerrville,” Compilation, Mumbo Gumbo, Silverwolf Records, 1996
• Guitarist, “Driving,” Chris Webster, Lots of Rabbits Records, 1996
• Guitarist, “Big Smiley,” Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1996
• Guitarist, “Believe... A Holiday Wish,” Compilation benefit album for Sacramento AIDS foundation, 1995
• Guitarist, “Deep Soup,” Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1994
• Guitarist, “Mumbo Gumbo,” Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1992
• Guitarist, “Live at The Palms,” Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1990
• Guitarist, “Out Among the Cows,” Compilation, Spydels & 10,000 Cattle, 1989
• Guitarist, “Blue Stereo Light,” Dave Webb, 1984
• Co-producer, audio engineer – “Leap of Faith”, Natomas Charter School Performing and Fine Arts Academy, 2006
• Co-producer, audio engineer – “Electric”, Natomas Charter School Performing and Fine Arts Academy, 2005
• Co-producer, audio engineer – “Equal”, Natomas Charter School Performing and Fine Arts Academy, 2003
• Co-producer, audio engineer – “Teenage Soul for the Chicken Soup”, Natomas Charter School Performing and Fine Arts Academy, 2001
• Audio engineer and assistant producer “The Dream Walker: A Journey Through Time”, Rhythm Magic Records, Sacramento, CA, 1999
• Co-producer “Adventures of Mumbo Gumbo”, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1997
• Co-producer “Big Smiley”, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1996
• Co-producer “Deep Soup”, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1994
• Co-producer “Mumbo Gumbo”, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1992
• Co-producer “Live at The Palms”, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records, 1990
Curriculum Vitae
Music Educator • Author • Guitarist • Clinician
Expanding access and diversity in music education
Expanding access and diversity in music education
CONTACT
Brian K Rivers
471 Wood Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45220
(513) 335-0624
brian@brianrivers.com
EDUCATION
2013
Bachelor of Music in Music Education with Jazz Specialization
University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM)
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
2013
Ohio K-12 Music Teaching Certificate
2002
CBEST certification
TEACHING EXPERTISE
ACADEMIC AND MUSIC INDUSTRY POSITIONS
2020-present
Classroom Music Educator
Withrow University High School, Cincinnati, OH,
2014-present
Author
Best Music Publications, www.bestmusicpublications.com (See Publications)
2013
Student Teacher (Grant Anderson, supervising teacher), Oak Hills High School, Cincinnati, OH,
2013
Student Teacher (Jan Diehl, supervising teacher), Guardian Angels Elementary School, Cincinnati, OH,
2008-present
Guitarist with award-winning singer-songwriter Tracy Walker www.tracywalker.com
(see Discography and Performance Credits)
2007-present
Private Music Instructor
Rivers Music – California and Ohio locations,
1997-2007
Classroom Music Educator – Department Head, Natomas Performing and Fine Arts Academy, Sacramento CA
1987-1997
Guitarist - Founding Member
Mumbo Gumbo, Sacramento CA (See Discography and Performance Credits)
1990-1994
Private Guitar Instructor
E Street Music, Davis CA
1987-1990
District Manager
Kaman Music Corporation, San Carlos, CA
1986-1987
District Manager
CTC Musical Imports, Brisbane, CA
1983-1986
Store Manager
Tupper & Reed Music, Oakland, CA
1979-1982
Front of House Engineer
West Coast Sound, Davis, CA
PROFESSIONAL AFFILATIONS
PUBLICATIONS
2019
The Best Guitar Method – Best Music Publications www.bestmusicpublications.com
2019
The Best Guitar Toolkit – Best Music Publications www.bestmusicpublications.com
UNIVERSITY GUEST LECTURES
2017
University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music – Secondary Instrumental Methods Class - “Teaching Guitar in the Classroom”
2019
University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music – Secondary Instrumental Methods Class - “Teaching Guitar in the Classroom”
CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS
2020
New Mexico Music Educator Association Professional Development Conference
"Every Music Educator Can Be a Great Guitar Teacher"
2020
New Mexico Music Educator Association Professional Development Conference
"Demystifying the Guitar"
2020
Ohio Music Educator Association Professional Development Conference
"Every Music Educator Can Be a Great Guitar Teacher"
2020
Texas Music Educator Association Professional Development Conference
"Every Music Educator Can Be a Great Guitar Teacher"
FUNDED GRANTS
2003
California Art Works Grant, California Department of Education
Grant funding was used to establish an orchestra program at the Natomas Performing and Fine Arts Academy. The grant supported staff training, music and instrument acquisition and curriculum development.
2001
Governor’s Performance Award, State of California
The grant funded additional equipment for the Digital Recording program at the Natomas Performing Arts Academy. This was the direct result of an in-person program visit by State Superintendent of Schools, Delaine Easton.
1998
Educational Assessment Grant, California Department of Education
This grant funded a school-wide electronic portfolio assessment initiative where students created an electronic portfolio to demonstrate graduation benchmark competencies. Computer equipment purchases and curriculum and standards development were the main aims of this grant.
TEACHING AWARDS AND HONORS
2010
Nationally Selected Participant - TI:ME Leadership Academy
Technology in Music Education advocacy organization, www.TI:ME.org
2006
Faculty Member - CSSA “Charter School of The Year” Award to the Natomas Performing and Fine Arts Academy
2005
“Outstanding Innovative Music Program” issued by Sacramento News & Review
A special recognition award to honor my work in developing the innovative and cutting-edge music program at the Natomas Performing and Fine Arts Academy.
2005
Faculty Member - Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts “National School of Distinction”
PERFORMANCE AWARDS
1995
Hall of Fame, Sacramento Music Award (Sammie)
1994
Best Band in Yolo County, Davis Enterprise
1994
Best World Band, Sacramento Music Award (Sammie),
1993
Best World Band, Sacramento Music Award, (Sammie),
1992
Best World Band, Sacramento Music Award, (Sammie),
1992
Best Band, “Best of Sacramento” - Sacramento Magazine
1977
Louis Armstrong National Jazz Award, National, high school youth award
ADJUDICATOR SERVICE
2004-2005
Panel Adjudicator
Stairway to Stardom after school music program, Sacramento CA
2004
Panel Adjudicator
University of California Picnic Day, Band Competition, 2004
PRODUCTION CREDITS
2012-2019
Producer – Rivers Music
Annual Student Showcase Concert
Responsibilities included:
· Venue selection
· Preparing twenty-five student performances
· Staffing
· Advance specifications to production support crew
· Graphic design and production of poster, program and back-stage passes
· Budgeting
1997-2007
Producer – Natomas Performing and Fine Arts Academy
Produced and directed over fifty productions and performances
1987-1997
Production Manager – Mumbo Gumbo
Managed the production of more than 800 performances. Responsibilities included:
AUDIO RECORDING PRODUCTION CREDITS
2006
Co-producer, audio engineer, Leap of Faith, Natomas PFAA (Performing and Fine Arts Academy), Blackrock Records
2005
Co-producer, audio engineer, Electric, Natomas PFAA, Blackrock Records
2003
Co-producer, audio engineer, Equal, Natomas PFAA, Blackrock Records
2001
Co-producer, audio engineer, Teenage Soul for the Chicken Soup, Natomas PFAA, Blackrock Records
1999
Audio engineer and assistant producer, The Dream Walker: A Journey Through Time, Rhythm Magic Records, Sacramento, CA
1997
Co-producer, The Adventures of Mumbo Gumbo, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1996
Co-producer, Big Smiley, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1994
Co-producer, Deep Soup, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1992
Co-producer, Mumbo Gumbo, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1990
Co-producer, Live at The Palms, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
DISCOGRAPHY
2018
Guitarist, Bayard Rustin - The Man Behind the Dream, The World House Choir
2014
Guitarist, Bare Bones Tracy Walker, Gallimaufry Records
2009
Guitarist, Fun Pak, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
2006
Guitarist, Something in the Water, Chris Webster, DIG Music
1999
Guitarist, Diving’, Chris Webster, Compass Records
1997
Guitarist, The Adventures of Mumbo Gumbo, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1996
Guitarist, Kerrville Folk Festival 1995 Highlights, Compilation, Silverwolf Records
1996
Guitarist, The Women of Kerrville, Compilation, Mumbo Gumbo, Silverwolf Records
1996
Guitarist, Driving, Chris Webster, Lots of Rabbits Records
1996
Guitarist, Big Smiley, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1995
Guitarist, Believe... A Holiday Wish, Benefit album for Sacramento AIDS foundation
1994
Guitarist, Deep Soup, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1992
Guitarist, Mumbo Gumbo, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1990
Guitarist, Live at The Palms, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1989
Guitarist, Out Among the Cows, Compilation, Spydels & 10,000 Cattle
1984
Guitarist, Blue Stereo Light, Dave Webb
COMMISSIONED WORKS (ensemble credits)
2018
Guitarist, World House Choir - Bayard Rustin - The Man Behind the Dream, and Earth Song
2018
Guitarist, Cincinnati Muse Choir - Bayard Rustin - The Man Behind the Dream
2017
Guitarist, Cincinnati Muse Choir - Iraqi Peace
TELEVISION CREDITS (partial list)
2018
Guitarist, WCET, Bayard Rustin - The Man Behind the Dream, The World House Choir
1996
Guitarist, PBS, Entertainment Express: performance appearance, Mumbo Gumbo
1996
Guitarist, CBS, Muscular Dystrophy Telethon, live performance, Mumbo Gumbo
1995
Guitarist, CBS, Northern Exposure: featured song, The Ring Waltz
1995
Guitarist, CBS Northern Exposure: featured song, Lovebirds
1995
Guitarist, ABC, NBA Sacramento Kings – National Anthem performance
1995
Guitarist, CBS, CBS This Morning: Mumbo Gumbo performance appearance
RADIO APPEARANCE CREDITS (partial list)
2014
Guitarist, WNKU Studio 89 with Tracy Walker
2011
Guitarist, WNKU Studio 89 with Tracy Walker
2010
Guitarist, WNKU Studio 89 with The Honneycombs
1998
Guitarist, KYSR Paul & Phil Christmas Show, Mumbo Gumbo Live Performance
1997
Guitarist, KPIG Hog Farm show, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview
1996
Guitarist, KVMR Night Live, feature broadcast Mumbo Gumbo
1995
Guitarist, NPR Car Talk featured Mumbo Gumbo song: I'm Driving
1995
Guitarist, KRXQ Ken Allen show, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview
1995
Guitarist, KPIG Hog Farm show, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview
1995
Guitarist, KRXQ Ken Allen show, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview
1994
Guitarist, KFOG Fog City Radio, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and performance
1994
Guitarist, KQED West Coast Weekend, Mumbo Gumbo live performance
1994
Guitarist, KPFA Larry Kelp Show, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview
MUSIC FESTIVAL PERFORMANCES (partial list)
VENUES (partial list)
Brian K Rivers
471 Wood Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45220
(513) 335-0624
brian@brianrivers.com
EDUCATION
2013
Bachelor of Music in Music Education with Jazz Specialization
University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM)
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
2013
Ohio K-12 Music Teaching Certificate
2002
CBEST certification
TEACHING EXPERTISE
- Fluent in all aspects of music recording and notation technology
- Teaching excellence in guitar, music production, improvisation, and music theory
- Grant funding to implement innovative and engaging music education programs
- Commitment to equity and inclusion in the classroom and in curricular choices
ACADEMIC AND MUSIC INDUSTRY POSITIONS
2020-present
Classroom Music Educator
Withrow University High School, Cincinnati, OH,
- 88 students weekly. (Grade 7)
- Music Theory through technology and composition
2014-present
Author
Best Music Publications, www.bestmusicpublications.com (See Publications)
2013
Student Teacher (Grant Anderson, supervising teacher), Oak Hills High School, Cincinnati, OH,
- 125 students weekly. (Grades 9-12 )
- Music Technology levels 1-3
2013
Student Teacher (Jan Diehl, supervising teacher), Guardian Angels Elementary School, Cincinnati, OH,
- 125 students weekly. (Grades 3-8 )
- 5-8 Band, 2-8 General Music (Orff), Jazz Ensemble
- Supervised and conducted student concert performances (see Production Credits)
2008-present
Guitarist with award-winning singer-songwriter Tracy Walker www.tracywalker.com
(see Discography and Performance Credits)
2007-present
Private Music Instructor
Rivers Music – California and Ohio locations,
- Guitar, songwriting, improvisation, piano and recording instruction
- Produce annual student recital productions (see Production Credits)
1997-2007
Classroom Music Educator – Department Head, Natomas Performing and Fine Arts Academy, Sacramento CA
- Taught 200 students weekly, grades 7-12, at a diverse public secondary school with a high proportion of students who qualified for free or reduced-price meals
- Computer music technology, music theory, music appreciation, guitar, songwriting, improvisation, band, orchestra
- Established one of the first high school level digital recording program in the United States, including Blackrock Records – a student run school record label
- Mentored students in the successful production of four full length CD releases
- Produced over twenty-five performance productions (see Production Credits)
- Collaborated with the theater department on music theater productions and arranged music for ensembles
1987-1997
Guitarist - Founding Member
Mumbo Gumbo, Sacramento CA (See Discography and Performance Credits)
1990-1994
Private Guitar Instructor
E Street Music, Davis CA
1987-1990
District Manager
Kaman Music Corporation, San Carlos, CA
1986-1987
District Manager
CTC Musical Imports, Brisbane, CA
1983-1986
Store Manager
Tupper & Reed Music, Oakland, CA
1979-1982
Front of House Engineer
West Coast Sound, Davis, CA
PROFESSIONAL AFFILATIONS
- National Association for Music Education (NAfME)
- National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM)
- Technology in Music Education (TI:ME)
- Association for Popular Music Education (APME)
PUBLICATIONS
2019
The Best Guitar Method – Best Music Publications www.bestmusicpublications.com
2019
The Best Guitar Toolkit – Best Music Publications www.bestmusicpublications.com
UNIVERSITY GUEST LECTURES
2017
University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music – Secondary Instrumental Methods Class - “Teaching Guitar in the Classroom”
2019
University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music – Secondary Instrumental Methods Class - “Teaching Guitar in the Classroom”
CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS
2020
New Mexico Music Educator Association Professional Development Conference
"Every Music Educator Can Be a Great Guitar Teacher"
2020
New Mexico Music Educator Association Professional Development Conference
"Demystifying the Guitar"
2020
Ohio Music Educator Association Professional Development Conference
"Every Music Educator Can Be a Great Guitar Teacher"
2020
Texas Music Educator Association Professional Development Conference
"Every Music Educator Can Be a Great Guitar Teacher"
FUNDED GRANTS
2003
California Art Works Grant, California Department of Education
Grant funding was used to establish an orchestra program at the Natomas Performing and Fine Arts Academy. The grant supported staff training, music and instrument acquisition and curriculum development.
2001
Governor’s Performance Award, State of California
The grant funded additional equipment for the Digital Recording program at the Natomas Performing Arts Academy. This was the direct result of an in-person program visit by State Superintendent of Schools, Delaine Easton.
1998
Educational Assessment Grant, California Department of Education
This grant funded a school-wide electronic portfolio assessment initiative where students created an electronic portfolio to demonstrate graduation benchmark competencies. Computer equipment purchases and curriculum and standards development were the main aims of this grant.
TEACHING AWARDS AND HONORS
2010
Nationally Selected Participant - TI:ME Leadership Academy
Technology in Music Education advocacy organization, www.TI:ME.org
2006
Faculty Member - CSSA “Charter School of The Year” Award to the Natomas Performing and Fine Arts Academy
2005
“Outstanding Innovative Music Program” issued by Sacramento News & Review
A special recognition award to honor my work in developing the innovative and cutting-edge music program at the Natomas Performing and Fine Arts Academy.
2005
Faculty Member - Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts “National School of Distinction”
PERFORMANCE AWARDS
1995
Hall of Fame, Sacramento Music Award (Sammie)
1994
Best Band in Yolo County, Davis Enterprise
1994
Best World Band, Sacramento Music Award (Sammie),
1993
Best World Band, Sacramento Music Award, (Sammie),
1992
Best World Band, Sacramento Music Award, (Sammie),
1992
Best Band, “Best of Sacramento” - Sacramento Magazine
1977
Louis Armstrong National Jazz Award, National, high school youth award
ADJUDICATOR SERVICE
2004-2005
Panel Adjudicator
Stairway to Stardom after school music program, Sacramento CA
2004
Panel Adjudicator
University of California Picnic Day, Band Competition, 2004
PRODUCTION CREDITS
2012-2019
Producer – Rivers Music
Annual Student Showcase Concert
Responsibilities included:
· Venue selection
· Preparing twenty-five student performances
· Staffing
· Advance specifications to production support crew
· Graphic design and production of poster, program and back-stage passes
· Budgeting
1997-2007
Producer – Natomas Performing and Fine Arts Academy
Produced and directed over fifty productions and performances
- Content selection
- Preparing student performances
- Collaborating with other departments
- Travel arrangements
- Staffing
- Advance specifications to production support crew
- Graphic design and production of poster, and program
- Budgeting
1987-1997
Production Manager – Mumbo Gumbo
Managed the production of more than 800 performances. Responsibilities included:
- Sound and lighting system design
- Employee training
- Advance planning of productions with venues and promotors
- Truck maintenance
- Procuring liability, workman’s insurance and venue indemnifications
- Employee payroll
AUDIO RECORDING PRODUCTION CREDITS
2006
Co-producer, audio engineer, Leap of Faith, Natomas PFAA (Performing and Fine Arts Academy), Blackrock Records
2005
Co-producer, audio engineer, Electric, Natomas PFAA, Blackrock Records
2003
Co-producer, audio engineer, Equal, Natomas PFAA, Blackrock Records
2001
Co-producer, audio engineer, Teenage Soul for the Chicken Soup, Natomas PFAA, Blackrock Records
1999
Audio engineer and assistant producer, The Dream Walker: A Journey Through Time, Rhythm Magic Records, Sacramento, CA
1997
Co-producer, The Adventures of Mumbo Gumbo, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1996
Co-producer, Big Smiley, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1994
Co-producer, Deep Soup, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1992
Co-producer, Mumbo Gumbo, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1990
Co-producer, Live at The Palms, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
DISCOGRAPHY
2018
Guitarist, Bayard Rustin - The Man Behind the Dream, The World House Choir
2014
Guitarist, Bare Bones Tracy Walker, Gallimaufry Records
2009
Guitarist, Fun Pak, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
2006
Guitarist, Something in the Water, Chris Webster, DIG Music
1999
Guitarist, Diving’, Chris Webster, Compass Records
1997
Guitarist, The Adventures of Mumbo Gumbo, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1996
Guitarist, Kerrville Folk Festival 1995 Highlights, Compilation, Silverwolf Records
1996
Guitarist, The Women of Kerrville, Compilation, Mumbo Gumbo, Silverwolf Records
1996
Guitarist, Driving, Chris Webster, Lots of Rabbits Records
1996
Guitarist, Big Smiley, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1995
Guitarist, Believe... A Holiday Wish, Benefit album for Sacramento AIDS foundation
1994
Guitarist, Deep Soup, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1992
Guitarist, Mumbo Gumbo, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1990
Guitarist, Live at The Palms, Mumbo Gumbo, Ruby Records
1989
Guitarist, Out Among the Cows, Compilation, Spydels & 10,000 Cattle
1984
Guitarist, Blue Stereo Light, Dave Webb
COMMISSIONED WORKS (ensemble credits)
2018
Guitarist, World House Choir - Bayard Rustin - The Man Behind the Dream, and Earth Song
2018
Guitarist, Cincinnati Muse Choir - Bayard Rustin - The Man Behind the Dream
2017
Guitarist, Cincinnati Muse Choir - Iraqi Peace
TELEVISION CREDITS (partial list)
2018
Guitarist, WCET, Bayard Rustin - The Man Behind the Dream, The World House Choir
1996
Guitarist, PBS, Entertainment Express: performance appearance, Mumbo Gumbo
1996
Guitarist, CBS, Muscular Dystrophy Telethon, live performance, Mumbo Gumbo
1995
Guitarist, CBS, Northern Exposure: featured song, The Ring Waltz
1995
Guitarist, CBS Northern Exposure: featured song, Lovebirds
1995
Guitarist, ABC, NBA Sacramento Kings – National Anthem performance
1995
Guitarist, CBS, CBS This Morning: Mumbo Gumbo performance appearance
RADIO APPEARANCE CREDITS (partial list)
2014
Guitarist, WNKU Studio 89 with Tracy Walker
2011
Guitarist, WNKU Studio 89 with Tracy Walker
2010
Guitarist, WNKU Studio 89 with The Honneycombs
1998
Guitarist, KYSR Paul & Phil Christmas Show, Mumbo Gumbo Live Performance
1997
Guitarist, KPIG Hog Farm show, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview
1996
Guitarist, KVMR Night Live, feature broadcast Mumbo Gumbo
1995
Guitarist, NPR Car Talk featured Mumbo Gumbo song: I'm Driving
1995
Guitarist, KRXQ Ken Allen show, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview
1995
Guitarist, KPIG Hog Farm show, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview
1995
Guitarist, KRXQ Ken Allen show, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview
1994
Guitarist, KFOG Fog City Radio, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and performance
1994
Guitarist, KQED West Coast Weekend, Mumbo Gumbo live performance
1994
Guitarist, KPFA Larry Kelp Show, Mumbo Gumbo live performance and interview
MUSIC FESTIVAL PERFORMANCES (partial list)
- Bunbury Music Festival
- United Way Annual Fundraising Concert
- Reno Jazz Festival
- Sonoma Jazz Festival
- Sacramento Jazz and Heritage Festival
- Sacramento Traditional Jazz Jubilee
- Napa Jazz Festival
- Sacramento Blues Festival
- San Jose Blues Festival
- Chico World Music Festival
- Napa World Music Festival
- Reggae on the River Music Festival
- Strawberry Music Festival
- Truckee Reggae and World Music Festival
- New Orleans by the Bay Festival
- Napa Valley Cajun Festival
- Kerrville Folk Festival
- High Sierra Music Festival
- Grass Valley World Music Festival
- Grass Valley Folk Festival
- Northern Rockies Folk Festival
- Vancouver Island Folk Festival
- Monterey Jazz Festival (High School Jazz Band)
VENUES (partial list)
- Shoreline Amphitheater, Palo Alto, CA
- Fillmore Auditorium, San Francisco, CA
- Arco Arena, Sacramento CA
- Memorial Auditorium, Sacramento, CA
- Berkeley Civic Auditorium, Berkeley, CA
- Celebrity Showroom, John Asquaga’s Nugget, Reno, NV
- MGM Grand, Reno, NV
- Sacramento Convention Center, Sacramento, CA
- San Jose Convention Center, San Jose, CA
- Moscone Convention Center, San Francisco, CA
- River Bend Music Center, Cincinnati, OH
- The Banks Main Stage, Cincinnati, OH
- Fountain Square, Cincinnati, OH
- Taft Museum Center, Cincinnati, OH
- Cincinnati Museum of Modern Art, Cincinnati, OH
- Cincinnati Museum Center, Cincinnati, OH
- Levitt Pavilion, Dayton, OH
- Founders Hall, Yellow Springs, OH
