Eric Griffin is a conductor and saxophonist based in Corning, New York. In addition to performing with the Great Lakes Wind Symphony, Eric serves as an adjunct faculty member at Corning Community College, where he teaches technical theater and stage design. He has previously conducted honor bands, wind ensembles, and marching bands throughout New York and Pennsylvania, and has led performances internationally, from London to Avery Fisher Hall in New York City. Eric is highly sought after as both a soloist and ensemble musician, performing with numerous big bands, dance bands, and jazz combos across Rochester and central New York, as well as north-central Pennsylvania. While you may not always see him on stage, audiences have likely heard his work in musical pit orchestras or under his baton as a conductor for theatrical productions for more than two decades. Eric is a member of several professional organizations and has received multiple honorary citations. A Grammy-nominated educator, he is also a proud member of Kappa Kappa Psi and the National Eagle Scout Association. Although his full-time career is with the New York State Department of Transportation, Eric is most proud of his role as a husband to his wife Wendy and a father to their four children: Genevieve, Liam, Lyra, and Nessa.
Richard Pollock is a multi-talented musician, educator, and coach whose career reflects a deep passion for both the performing arts and athletics. He performs actively as an alto saxophonist with the Great Lakes Wind Symphony and serves as the lead tenor saxophonist for the Troy Town Jazz Band, bringing energy, artistry, and versatility to each ensemble. Richard is the band and jazz band director at The Alternative School for Math and Science in Corning, NY, where he is dedicated to fostering musical excellence and inspiring the next generation of young musicians. In addition to his work in music education, he extends his leadership to the court as a women’s volleyball coach at Corning Community College. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music in 2018 under the mentorship of renowned saxophonist Dr. Joseph Murphy, an experience that helped shape his musicianship and professional direction. Outside of his professional commitments, Richard is an avid athlete. He plays competitive volleyball and earned a 1st-place finish at the USAV National Tournament in 2021. He also enjoys staying active through hiking, biking, and ultimate frisbee. Blending artistry, athleticism, and education, Richard continues to make a meaningful impact both on stage and in his community.
Originally from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Cristin L. Eick studied saxophone with Neil Wetzel at Moravian University and later with Joseph Murphy at Mansfield University, where she earned her Bachelor of Music in Music Education in 2001. She completed graduate work at Moravian University and the University of Scranton. For over 20 years, Cristin served as a high school band director and administrator while also teaching in her private studio. She now lives in Mansfield with her wife and three children and enjoys family time, community volunteering, and traveling.
