Conductor, Utah Youth Junior Symphony Orchestra (UYJSO) – Dan Rich

Dan Rich has been the conductor of the Utah Youth Junior Symphony Orchestra (formerly known as the Utah Youth Preparatory Orchestra) since its inception in the late 1970s. Over the years he has worked with literally hundreds of musicians, some of whom have gone on to perform in the Utah Youth Symphony Orchestra and later embark on professional teaching and performing careers. He first joined the Utah Youth Symphony in the early 1970s as a trumpet player when the orchestra was under the direction of Robert Lentz.

Since 1971, Mr. Rich has been the instrumental music instructor at Bountiful Junior High School. His performing groups have always been rated superior and noted for their musical performances. His awards and recognitions include: 2004-05 UMEA's Music Educator of the Year, Davis School District Outstanding Junior High Band Teacher, Outstanding Music Educator, Hall of Fame Award, and Utah Music Educator’s Association Superior Accomplishment Award. Mr. Rich received his Masters of Music degree from Utah State University and has done further study at Pennsylvania State University and the University of Utah.

Other musical involvements have found Mr. Rich as an Adjunct Professor of trumpet at Weber State University for many years. An experienced adjudicator, clinician, and conductor, he has worked in festivals and musical events throughout Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming. As a professional trumpet player, he has performed with the Utah Symphony, Ballet West, Utah Opera, Utah Chamber Orchestra, Pioneer Memorial Theatre and many other professional groups throughout the state. In all of his musical experiences, Mr. Rich endeavors to make music fun and strongly believes in music’s power to enlighten the soul.