Rich Labedz

About Richard

Richard Labedz is a highly sought-after freelance performer in the New England area as well as the Director of Bands and Jazz Studies at Newton North High School in Newton, Massachusetts. Prior to his position in Newton, Labedz taught at Dean College and Naropa University. A strong advocate for jazz education in the public schools, Labedz has presented clinics at the International Association for Jazz Educators Conference as well as having been a guest artist for numerous school band programs throughout the United States and Australia. Labedz has served as an adjudicator for district and state festivals in Massachusetts and Rhode Island and is an experienced arts advocate and educational leader having started several honors groups, has successfully implemented several grant projects for music education. Labedz is passionately involved in working with students at all levels and delivers a creative and personalized curriculum in his approach to instruction.

In addition to being a dedicated music educator, Labedz has developed a successful career as both a creative artist and commercial performer. Labedz has had the opportunity to perform throughout the United States and has performed professionally with: John Adams, The Aspen Chamber Symphony, The Boulder Philharmonic, Dave Brubeck, Matt Catingub, Peter Christlieb, Claflin Hill Symphony, Jon Faddis, Bob Florence, George Garzone, Slide Hampton, The OJ's, Art Lande, Dave Liebman, Keith Lockhart, Bob Mintzer, Bobby Shew, Max Roach, Bobby Rydell, The Ryles Jazz Orchestra, The Thayer Symphony, Robin Eubanks, Jiggs Whigham, The Worcester Jazz Orchestra, and Phil Wilson.

I am passionate about helping students achieve their unique goals in music. My teaching strategy involves creating a personalized approach to the curriculum for each individual student.