Born into a multi-generational musician family, Rick began both guitar and drums at the age of eight, forming his first band at 14.  Rick has toured both North America and Europe as a performing musician.  He can be seen in the Charlottesville area playing Gypsy Jazz in The Olivarez Trio. 
Rick began teaching in 1989, in a variety of styles including, Rock, Jazz, Classical,Blues, and Bluegrass.  He offers lessons for guitar, bass, drums, banjo, mandolin, piano, ukulele, and harmonica.  Rick also speaks fluent Spanish and French.