Richard Dodson studied composition with Dr. Michael Shott, Professor of Music Composition at Northern Arizona University, over several years. A former K–12 music teacher, principal, and Professor Emeritus at Murray State University, he has spent over forty years in education, working in both K–12 schools and higher education.

During this time, Richard Dodson has composed two operas, twelve ballets based on Irish folktales, five symphonies, twelve concertos for orchestra and various instruments, as well as three string quartets, a brass quintet, and a woodwind quintet.

His work also includes a bossa nova piece and a Liebestraum (love dream) sonata for violin, cello, and piano, dedicated to his wife.