template

Born in Woodstock, Ontario Richard came by his county roots honestly via his family farm. His first music teacher was his father (William) playing and singing as wall as his fathers Hank Snow, Wilf Carter, Johnny Cash and George Jones records that land the the country grounding. Through his older siblings (3 sisters 2 brothers) records and their own talent, and during high school Richard discovered the excitement of Rock and Roll listening to Artists like Elvis, The Beatles, The Stones, The Clash, Yes, ZZ Top, Bob Seger, Bruce Springsteen etc. This all added to his Dance Band playing starting at 16 years of age.

In high school Richard added Saxophone to his Guitar and harmonica playing talents. A couple of years after high school the study of the saxophone and music continued at Mohawk College and York University as well with players such as John Coltrane, Ben Webster as well as leaders such as Miles Davis Count Basie and Duke Ellington. At the same time Richard was playing 40 – 45 weekends a year in a number of country bands and Artists in the Hamilton – Toronto area during his years at college and university such as “The Band True Blue” and “Terry Sumsion” whom he still performs with.

He finished his schooling at the Faculty of Education at the University of Windsor receiving his Degree in 1995 and has been teaching for the Peel District School Board since September 2001.

Richard has most recently joined forces with “Dan McVeigh North of 49" as the lead guitarist, harmony vocals, harmonica and saxophone as well. Dan had met Richard in September 1997 at the Canadian Country Music weekend just before Richard September 21, 1997 head on collision with a driver (who died that night) on the 401 that was under the influence going the wrong direction. It is good to see Richard surrounded by the great talent of the North of 49 band he is looking forward to this opportunity to be playing and singing again.

You can immediately see the enjoyment Richard receives from performing. With his wide interest of the many styles of music he has studied and appreciated, “North of 49” is pleased to have him in the band and be such an entertaining member of the band.

He his looking forward to the opportunity of performing with “Dan McVeigh and North of 49" for you at your function soon.