Richard is delighted to devote his days to music education (his own and others') after a lengthy career in technology. In 2019 he completed a Professional Certificate in Music Theory and Composition through Berklee Online, with additional study in orchestration and counterpoint.

The son of a piano and voice teacher, Richard took classical piano lessons as a child and studied jazz piano upon moving to Seattle. He has since gained experience teaching beginning piano to younger students, an experience he finds enriching and stimulating.

As an enthusiastic composer, Richard has completed short compositions for jazz trio, string quartet, and saxophone quartet formations, which were then performed at events organized by the Seattle Composers Alliance. He also loves exploring synthesis and electronic music.

Richard's musical heroes include fellow South African Abdullah Ibrahim and other piano greats like Brad Mehldau, Jessica Williams, Herbie Hancock, Keith Jarrett and Bill Evans, along with the many magnificent musicians based in Seattle!