Founder and executive director of the Northeast Florida Conservatory, Richard Dickson is a conductor, performer and educator with degrees from Stetson and UF. He served as executive director for Amelia Arts Academy, Gainesville Community Chorus and Orchestra, director of Gainesville Community Band and music director for Amelia Island Chorale. He has taught in high schools as well as at FCCJ, JU and UF, and played French horn with the JSO.