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of Okla. professor appointed director of School of Music Richard Gipson’s love for music began at age eight with jazz and marching band drummers. “After I started studying music seriously I realized that it was so much more than just drums,” Gipson said. “The opportunity to pursue a career doing that which I enjoyed the most in life made the decision to become a music professional an easy one.” Gipson said it is an honor and a privilege to be asked to come to TCU and work with the School of Music faculty and students as the new director of the program. “I want to bring a new perspective, a new set of experiences, a new set of expectations, and a background that I feel will be helpful in enriching the musical life of the department, the university, and the community,” Gipson said. Scott Sullivan, dean of the college of fine arts, announced the appointment of Gipson as director last week and said he will bring a strong record of administrative experience to TCU. “He was the best qualified candidate for the position,” Sullivan said. “He has strong leadership experience and the faculty in the School of Music support him very strongly.” Sullivan said Gipson will begin his new job around Aug. 1 and will replace the current interim director Blaise Ferrandino. Ferrandino will stay with TCU as a member of the faculty. Humberto Gonzalez, a freshman vocal/flute performance major, said he hopes Gipson will address some problems students have with the Music School. “A current concern among music students is the limited hours that these facilities are available after hours,” Gonzalez said. “We also need to invest in more practice facilities.” Gonzalez said it is important for the new director to take these concerns into serious consideration and make it a priority to find a solution to these problems. Gipson said in order to fix any problems the program may have, he must work well with the people around him. “I’ll be working closely with the faculty, administration, students, alumni and community to explore what is best for TCU,” he said. “It’s not just change for change sake, but change that will accomplish positive results.” Gipson is currently a professor of music at the University of Oklahoma in Norman and served as director of the OU School of Music from 1992-97. He was also interim provost and vice president for academic affairs and special assistant to the president while at OU. “As a native Texan, I have long been aware of TCU’s fine music program and the high academic quality of the institution,” Gipson said. “When this position became available and I had a chance to visit with the people here, it became clear to me that this is where I should be.” Raul
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