Rick studied flute, guitar, piano and voice at the University of Bowling Green, Ohio and at Nazareth College of Rochester, New York, where he was a member of classical and jazz ensembles and performed in musical theater. His interest in music of other cultures inspired him to join “La Tuna” Spanish minstrel group and increase his study of music in foreign languages. He worked his way around Europe several times, traveling to Germany, Switzerland, France, Spain and Scandinavia, singing on cruise ships, in public squares and along terraces of cafe and restaurant.

Certain to develop poise as a performer, Rick sought opportunities in the United States by singing at a variety public locations, such as, park festivals, beauty pageants, harbor towns and ski areas. The position as singing waiter in a preeminent four-star hotel fostered his showcase of talent with a house orchestra and soon he became a regular entertainer at several grand-style resorts throughout New York and New England. To further artistic endeavors, he studied acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City and eventually earned a Master of Arts Degree at the highly regarded theater program of CUNY Hunter College.

Rick continues to entertain in venues around New York and the Hudson River Valley, singing and performing on piano, guitar and premiering flute in his own arrangements or in concert with other musicians. An appreciation for classical, as well as popular music, led to his singing in several chorales. These chorale experiences have garnered appearances with professional soloists, orchestras, baroque and other ensembles at prestigious landmarks, such as, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Carnegie Hall.