Richard is currently the Musical DIrector of both the Hangleton Senior and Youth Bands. He was born and educated in Hove joining Hangleton Band to play the cornet at the age of six. In 1984 he attended Salford University (then College of Technology) where he was able to study with well known band names such as Roy Newsome, Goff Richards, David King and Dr. Kevin Thompson.

After completing his Graduate Diploma in Band Musicianship in 1987, he returned to the South East and successfully applied for a job with the Metropolitan Police Band. The band undertook community and ceremonial work throughout London and also entertained at Police festivals in Switzerland and Japan. Whilst based in London, Richard took the opportunity to study the trumpet with Ian Wilson of the Covent Garden Opera House Orchestra and Brian Ranse a regular player in West End shows.

After another round of financial cuts the Police Band was disbanded in 1997 at which time Richard attended the music P.G.C.E. course at Sussex University. On completion of the course Richard started working for West Sussex as a part time peripatetic teacher, and started to build a strong private teaching practice.

In January 2004 Richard joined the Brighton and Hove Music and Performing Arts Service and is currently enjoying teaching in his old schools and many others in the area. As a response to requests from ex West Sussex pupils he set up the Class Brass Big Band in 2004.

In September 2008 the circle was completed and Richard has returned to conduct the Hangleton Youth Band. He is looking forward to furthering the aim of the band – to make brass playing accessible to all young people who are interested.

Richard continues to perform professionally when time allows appearing as a soloist, in orchestras, bands and shows