David Rives

Education

Master of Music (Conducting), Baylor University, Waco, TX (May 2000)

Bachelor of Music Education (magna cum laude), Tarleton State University, Stephenville, TX (May 1998)

Background

My family heritage is teaching. Both my parents teach and several other family members are involved in education. Also, my parents, teachers, and family have always encouraged me to develop my musical talent. It was because of this fostering that I continued to develop my skills and my love of singing at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, TX where my father was the director of the choral program. After I finished my undergraduate work at Tarleton, I felt the need to continue my professional development. I took advantage of an opportunity to further my education at Baylor University and work with some of the best musicians and musical groups in the country.  After earning a Masters of Music degree in conducting from Baylor, I entered the professional education world as the assistant choral director at Colleyville Heritage High School.  Danny Detrick, now Birdville ISD Fine Arts Director and Past President of the Texas Choral Director Association President, mentored me through my first years as a teacher and together we built the CHHS choirs into a thriving program of 285 singers.. After five years at CHHS I was prepared to be a head choral director and it was with great excitement that I accepted the position at RHS in the fall of 2005.  That excitement is still felt today as I am looking forward to another great year with the Ryan Choirs.

Teaching Philosophy

I hope to approach each day with optimism and to improve myself and my choirs every day. I hope to instill in your children my love of music and my understanding of music’s unique ability to enrich the human spirit.

Personal Life

• Married to Jamie Rives, Music Specialist, UNT

• Eagle Scout

• Lead role in Verdi’s opera Falstaff at Baylor

• Camp Counselor & Program Director at Vista Camps in Ingram, TX since 1994

• Graduate of Stephenville High School

• Played for Stephenville's 1992 State Quarterfinal football team coached by Art Briles

• Alpha Chi, National Collegiate Honor Society