MANSFIELD — Richland Academy of the Arts has welcomed four new music educators — Mickey Quimby, Megan Potter, Christian Watson and Robert Futrell — to its team of professional instructors.
Each brings a unique set of talents and a shared commitment to inspiring and empowering students through music, the school said.
Quimby is a seasoned music educator with over 20 years of experience in instruction, curriculum development, and arts integration.
A graduate of the University of Massachusetts Lowell, Quimby has led music programs in public schools, private studios, and arts organizations. He currently teaches at Discovery School and serves as a lead teaching artist and camp director with the Center for Arts-Inspired Learning.
Potter is a nationally recognized vocalist and educator who has performed across the country in opera, symphonic, jazz, and musical theater settings. She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in instrumental and vocal music education from Northern State University and a master of music in vocal performance from the University of Colorado at Boulder.
Hailed by the Los Angeles Times and Opera Today for her rich mezzo-soprano voice and compelling stage presence, Potter brings professional performance experience and a deep passion for vocal training to students of all ages.
Watson brings nearly a decade of experience leading instrumental music programs in Ohio’s public schools. Currently the head band director at Mansfield Senior High School, Watson has led efforts in curriculum design, student engagement, and regional music education leadership through the Ohio Music Education Association.
A Mansfield resident, Christian holds degrees from VanderCook College of Music and The Ohio State University and is committed to creating inclusive, high-quality music education experiences.
Futrell is a dedicated music educator with a passion for helping students grow in both skill and confidence. He currently serves as director of music at Norwalk Catholic/St. Paul Schools, teaching general music and band for grades K–12.
A graduate of Heidelberg University with a degree in instrumental music education, Futrell is experienced in a wide range of teaching methods and performance preparation. Whether in the classroom or one-on-one, he focuses on creating a positive and encouraging environment where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to develop a lifelong love for music.
“These four music educators bring an incredible amount of talent, passion, and heart to our community,” said Michael Benson, executive director at Richland Academy of the Arts.
“We’re excited to welcome them to the RAA family as we expand our music programming, provide transformative learning experiences, and move forward with our Empower the Arts Capital Campaign to modernize our building and improve accessibility for the entire community,” Benson said.
(Above, from left, are Robert Futrell, Christian Watson, Megan Potter and Micky Quimby.)
About Richland Academy of the Arts: Founded in 1991, the Richland Academy of the Arts is located in the heart of Mansfield on the corner of Fourth and Walnut streets, beside the Carrousel. Supported by the Ohio Arts Council and the Area Agency on Aging, RAA was established to enrich the lives of individuals and the community through the arts. To learn more about upcoming classes, private lessons, and music programs at Richland Academy of the Arts, visit www.richlandacademy.com or call (419) 522-8224.