About Richard

Education
Originally from Ft. Wayne, Indiana, Richard graduated from Interlochen Arts Academy (a performing arts boarding high school in Michigan) as a 4-year percussion major, completed his Bachelor's of Music in percussion at The Juilliard School, received his Master's of Music from Mannes College of Music, and is currently finishing his Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Southern California.

 

Pipe Bands
Richard has been playing drums since he was 6 and has won numerous national and international competitions for solo drumming. With a natural affinity and passion for Scottish drumming, Richard has played with many accomplished grade 1 and 2 pipe bands, including Toronto Police Pipe Band, City of Detroit Pipe Band, North Coast Pipe Band, and Saffron United Pipe Band, where he was the lead drummer. In 2006, Richard played with House of Edgar Shotts and Dykehead Pipe Band as a fly-in player under the leadership of the world-renowned Jim Kilpatrick. In 2007, Richard became the lead drummer for the Grade 1 Los Angeles Scots Pipe Band and led the drum corps to place first in drumming in the qualifying round and eleventh overall at the 2007 World Pipe Band Championships. Richard has instructed many aspiring players of all ages in the art of Scottish drumming as well as teaching competitive drum corps, college courses, and master classes. He has also spoken at pipe band and music conventions nationwide. Also, Richard has created the Perfect Practice Pad.

 

Percussion
Richard has had many years of training in classical, Scottish, and world percussion. As a performer, he has been a featured percussionist for Paul Halley since 2000, and has been the featured percussionist for many outstanding groups, including the Glen Velez Ensemble, The Nick Halley Band, and The Celebration Youth Chorus. Richard has expertise in classical and world percussion, including Latin, African, Middle-Eastern, Indian, and, of course, Scottish drumming.

 

Piano
Richard first began playing the piano when he was 4. He continued his studies throughout high school and college. He has taught students of all ages in public schools, community centers and has instructed many students privately.