Chris Riggs

Education

MM, Percussion Performance & Literature, Northwestern University
BM, Percussion Performance, University of Oklahoma

Biography

A native of Edmond, Oklahoma, Chris joined the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra in 2017 as Assistant Principal Timpani and Section Percussion. Prior to starting in Milwaukee, he was a fellow at the New World Symphony from 2012-2015, and began freelancing with various orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, and Chicago Symphony.

As an educator, Chris was an Adjunct Percussion Professor at Sam Houston State University, where he taught on topics including percussion methods, percussion composition and arranging, music therapy, and percussion’s role in the orchestra.  He has also worked with various high schools and universities as a drumline instructor and arranger.

Chris earned his master’s degree in Percussion Performance and Literature from Northwestern University, a bachelor’s degree in Percussion Performance, and a minor in philosophy from the University of Oklahoma.  His principal teachers were Lance Drege, Michael Burritt, She-e Wu, and James Ross.

Outside of performing, Chris enjoys spending time with his family, and always looks for an excuse to get to the mountains.