Rich Dart has been a percussionist for over twenty years, and has played with over one hundred performing groups and ensembles. Rich started studying percussion through the local school system in Clinton, Connecticut and then later with percussion master Ernest Centoscudi. In 1989, Rich entered the music program at Keene State College in New Hampshire. While there, he quickly became an active member of the Music Department, studying percussion under William Hanley and John Kelley, and composition under Dr. Huebert C. Bird. In addition to his studies, Rich helped form the Brickyard Mallet Ensemble and originated the Keene State College Pep Band.

In 1993 Rich helped form The Maggies, an alternative pop group that quickly became a favorite of the new music scene in New England and New York. They released three albums on their own label, had a top ten college radio hit as well a hit in the California underground music scene. His performance with The Maggies contributed greatly to the reputation Rich was building as a creative percussionist and an exciting stage presence. At the end of that year, Rich became the musical director for the syndicated college television program entitled "After Dark." He held this position until May of 1994 when he graduated with a Bachelor of Music Degree in both Music Composition and Musical Performance with a specialization in percussion.

Upon his return to Connecticut after graduating, Rich became an active member of both the Meriden and Wallingford Symphonies where he has served as principal percussionist. He has also performed with the Waterbury Symphony, the New Canaan Symphony, the Greenwich Symphony Orchestra, and others. He performs regularly with several jazz groups and with rock/pop groups such as The Beach Bums and Creamed Corn, and has appeared on numerous CDs by these groups as well as other regional recording artists, including the latest release from singer/songwriter, Jack Caldwell. For the years 1998, 1999 and 2003, Rich served as the musical director for the annual musical at Westbrook High School in Westbrook, Connecticut. In September, 2001, Rich joined Rhode Island legend and former Roomful of Blues front man, Greg Piccolo for a six week tour that has since turned into an on-going position with the group. He has appeared on stage with many performers including beatnik legend, David Amram, and jazz great, Lionel Hampton. He has continued to study percussion under the likes of David Smith and world-renowned marimbist, Nancy Zeltsman. His most recent project has been to give new composers exposure by calling for solo percussion works to record and make available to the public. Rich is an official endorser for Page Drums.

Contact details and further information

E-mail Rich Dart

For further details, see Rich Dart's website