Richard Tijerino has been an active performer in Miami-Dade County and a professional violin instructor since 2022. His musical journey began at Olympia Heights Elementary School, continuing through South Miami Middle School under the direction of Besnik Hashani, where his passion for music education was first ignited. He furthered his studies at Coral Reef Senior High School, studying under Dr. Lee Stone.

Throughout his academic career, Richard has participated in the Superintendent Honors Music Festival since middle school. In 2022, he was honored to serve as concertmaster for the festival, conducted by Gerard Schwarz. The same year, he was selected as a New World Symphony Side-by-Side participant, working with conductor Mei-Ann Chen.

Richard is a seasoned musician and educator, having received superior ratings at both district and state levels in conducting, teaching, coaching, and supporting students with diverse personalities and abilities. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree at the Frost School of Music, University of Miami, where he studies in the Karen Lord-Powell violin studio.

As a member of the Frost Symphony Orchestra, Richard has performed in landmark works including Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana, and George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. On January 10, 2025, he presented at the Tampa FMEA Convention alongside colleagues, delivering a session titled “Incorporating UDL in Music Lesson Plans.”

Beyond his academic commitments, Richard serves as a teaching artist at the Community Arts Program (CAP), where he provides violin instruction and music theory education to students with diverse musical abilities and neurodiversity. At the University of Miami, he held the position of NAfME Collegiate Historian from Spring 2024 to Fall 2025. Additionally, Richard volunteers at Miami Jam Sessions, a music therapy socialization and mentoring program for neurodivergent teens and young adults.

His comprehensive experience as a performer, educator, and advocate for inclusive music education underscores his dedication to instilling musical growth in all students.