Richard Mason

Prof. Mason joined Georgia Southern University in 2003 and retired in 2025.

— Biography from the 2026 Spring Commencement program —

Dr. Richard Mason, Associate Professor of Low Brass, who retired July 1, 2025. Dr. Mason earned his BA from West Virginia Wesleyan College (1979), his MA from California State University Northridge (1981), and his PhD from the University of Alabama (2004). He served Georgia Southern University as Low Brass instructor and Director of the Jazz Band since 2003. When he came to Georgia Southern University, he brought a wealth of experience as a professional trombone player in Los Angeles, where he played in prominent ensembles and recording sessions and served as a teacher in other university settings. His level of professional expertise elevated the status of Georgia Southern and raised the standard of teaching among our brass studios. During his nearly 22 years at Georgia Southern, the Jazz Band was invited to play for the Georgia Music Educators Association, the Savannah Jazz Festival, and at numerous high schools throughout the state, resulting in outstanding recruiting efforts for our growing music school. His concert audience is loyal and has grown accustomed to a high level of musical achievement from the Jazz Band. His trombone students consistently succeed in graduate schools and professional positions in performance and education. Dr. Mason has also served as Area Head for Brass in the School of Music and has led a team of instructors with administrative skill and excellence. He has served on numerous committees in the School of Music, the College of Arts and Humanities, and the University, including the chairmanship of several notable search committees. He has offered consistently excellent achievement in teaching, creative activity and service, making him deserving of the title Associate Professor of Low Brass Emeritus.