Dr. Clay Redfield: A Musical Journey Rooted in Placer High

I graduated from Placer High School in 1978, and the education and experiences I gained there laid a strong foundation that significantly influenced my career path. The curriculum, the friendships, and the life lessons I gained there were invaluable, shaping both my personal growth and future career path.

I went on to build a rewarding career in music education—first as a public-school music teacher and now as a college professor. I owe much of that success to the foundation I received at Placer. The impact of the teachers, coaches, staff, and administrators was profound. Their guidance and example laid the groundwork for everything that followed.

One educator, in particular, made a lasting impression: Mr. Clyde Quick, our beloved band director. Mr. Quick wasn’t just a gifted music educator—he was a mentor, a role model, and a compassionate leader who truly cared about his students. He created a close-knit, supportive environment that allowed us to thrive musically and personally. Through his encouragement, I found both my passion and my calling in music education—a debt of gratitude I carry with me to this day.

Even decades after graduation, Mr. Quick remained a mentor and friend. We often served together as adjudicators at music festivals, sharing laughs and fond memories of our days at Placer. His passing left a profound void, felt deeply by a generation of students he had inspired.

Since 2008, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a professor of music at my alma mater, Sacramento State, where I direct the music education program and mentor future teachers. One of the highlights of my job is supervising student teachers at Placer—it’s a surreal and joyful experience that always brings back memories. I’m continually impressed by the outstanding students and the enduring strength of the music program, now under the leadership of Mr. Lawrenson.

In my visits to schools across the country, one thing is clear: successful schools thrive because of community support. I encourage all alumni, parents, and friends of Placer to get involved—whether it’s donating to fundraisers, volunteering time, mentoring students, or simply celebrating their achievements. Every contribution, big or small, makes a lasting difference.

Placer High shaped who I am, and I’m proud to be part of its legacy.

Dr. Clay Redfield is the Coordinator of Music Education in the School of Music at California State University, Sacramento. From 2008 to 2020, Redfield also directed the Sacramento State Marching Band. Prior to joining the Sacramento State faculty in 2008, Redfield served as the Fine Arts Division Chairman and Director of Bands at Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher, Arizona. Redfield began his teaching career in 1984 in Reno, Nevada, where he taught instrumental music at Robert McQueen High School, Darrell C. Swope Middle School, and several elementary schools. Some of Redfield’s credits include the Northern Nevada Outstanding High School Educator Award, the Washoe County Teachers Association Distinguished Service Award, a four-time Nevada State Marching Band Champion, and the UNLV Graduate Teaching Assistantship. Redfield is a frequently invited conductor, clinician, adjudicator, presenter, and contest director.