Saxophonist & Jazz Educator


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Resume

 

Recommendations For Rick from industry people

Currently

  • Faculty member at Wheaton College teaching Saxophone, Clarinet, Jazz Piano, 
    Jazz Harmony, African American Originals II and  The Wheaton Jazz Band.

  • Faculty member at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth teaching Saxophone-Jazz Studies, The Art & History of Rock & Roll.

  • Instructing Old Rochester Regional High School Jazz Band in an after school project to develop improvisational skills.

  • Jazz performances with local artists John Harrison, Semenya McCord,  Jim Robitaille, Matt Richard, Dave Zinno, Paul Delnero, John Wallace, Alon Yavnai, Greg Wardsen, Marcelle Gauvin and numerous other performers.

  • Producer, engineer, arranger, orchestrator, composer and MIDI consultant at Saurus Studio.

  • Recording and producing commercials for radio and television in the New England area.

  • Adjudicator for All-State Jazz auditions for RIMEA– Rhode Island Music Educators Association

 

Performing Experience

  • Have performed in various musical genres, including Classical, Jazz, Rock, R&B, Soul, Theatre.

  • Performed with New Bedford Symphony for special George Gershwin program.

  • Performed with Grammy Award winning artists Queen Latifa, Tavares, Little Anthony & The Imperials, The Tune Weavers, The Platters and The Drifters.

  • Toured nationally with vocal jazz group “One O'Clock Jump” double billed with Buddy Rich Big Band, Jackie and Roy Kraul, Ray Brown, Rosemary Clooney, The Artie Shaw Band, and The Count Basie Orchetra.

             

 

 

 

 

 

Production Credits

  • Music Director for Gateway Playhouse in Wareham for a season's performance on Cape Cod.

  • Composed and produced soundtrack for "Earth Day" video for Rhode Island University.

  • Numerous musical productions for children's theater in the local areas of Fall River and New Bedford.

  • 1979 Award for Best Original Composition by A.R.T.A. (Area Regional Theater Association).

  • Composed and produced musical soundtrack for video documentary "Profiles Of Living History" for the Black Heritage Foundation of New Bedford funded by The Polaroid Corporation.

  • Produced commercials for radio or TV for the following local companies:
    Pencils, Dartmouth Building Supply, Better Homes of New Bedford, Ralph’s Chevrolet Cadillac Geo, First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union, Dartmouth Mitsubishi

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recording Credits

  • New recording of avante garde saxophone duet "Conversations with Erik & I" with Erik van Dam on alto sax and Rick Britto on tenor sax to be released January 2011.

  • CD release Sept. 2010, "In The Sky" featuring saxophonist, Rick Britto and pianist, Matt Rrichard in their first duo project release on the TrineArc Music label. 

  • CD  release Sept. 2010, performed, recorded and mastered "Trine +1"  for avante garde trio, "Trine", featuring Jim Robitaille; guitar, Rick Britto; saxes, and Chris Poudrier; drum with guest artist Chris Lopes on bass on the TrineArc Music label.

  • Sept 09 CD release, performed recorded and mastered "One O'clock Jump Live" a 1930's-50's jazz/swing vocal group  from an audio tape series of live performances dating back to the 1980s by One O'clock Jump in both concerts and jazz clubs from East to West Coast.

  • Recorded and mastered CD, "Crystal Fortress II to be released this Fall", for pianist and composer Cheryl Conte.

  • Mastered CD for the Andy McWain Ensemble: Resmeblance
    This project features music from two separate recording sessions: one with Assif Tsahar (tenor sax/bass cl), Albey Balgochian (elec upright bass), and Chris Poudrier (dr/perc) with me on acoustic piano; and another session with Sofia Koutsovitis (voc), Rick Britto (sax). Jeremy Udden (sax), David Landoni (acoustic bass), and Chris Poudrier (dr/perc) with Andy McWain on elec. piano...).

  • Performed sax on CD, "Holy City" with The Lord's Orphans, best described as a modern day american version of Pink Floyd with a mix of other influences that include Peter Gabriel, late Beatles, The Doors, Alan Parsons Project and Led Zeppelin.

  • Mastered CD, "Crystal Fortress", for pianist and composer Cheryl Conte.

  • Recorded and mastered CD, for avante garde trio, "Trine", featuring Jim Robitaille; guitar, Rick Britto; saxes, and Chris Poudrier; drum.

  • Recorded and mastered live CD in concert for classical vocalist,  Rachel Weis.

  • CD mastering for a new book, Music of South India published by Professor Matthew Allen of Wheaton College released by Oxford Publishing. 

  • CD mastering and digital restoration for a new compilation CD for Wheaton College's Music Department in honor of retiring professor of music Carlton T. Russel.

  • Recorded, mastered and co-produced CD, "Harmonious Healings" for Spiritualist Medium, Rev. Gail Hicks.

  • Performance and song credits on Dan Moretti's second CD release "Saxual" on PAR Records.

  • Compositions “Xumusca” and “Nova Samba” on the Whaling City Sound Super Band CD released by Whaling City Records.

  • Recorded and mastered CD of dialog and soundtrack for noted photographer Ron Barboza’s slide show presentation based on the history of Cape Verdean Americans for the “So Sabe Festival” funded by Boston University.

  • Performance, recording and production of Christian choir "Praise Twice" Choir Master Edward Viveiros, Jr..

  • Live recording of classical group Cobach Trio, flute, oboe and cello.

  • Live recording of classical oboist Donna Dreisbach at Grace Episcopal Church of New Bedford, Massachusetts.

  • Recorded and produced meditation CD “Focus Your Thoughts I” for Dionysius Skaliotis, Doctor of Chinese Medicine.

  • Digital editing for Brazilian group Searles & Allen’s “Time & Again".

  • Mastering for Spanish vocalist Andres Pena Gomez’s release “La Banda Negra”.

  • Mastering for jazz saxophonist Treg Monty’s release “No Place To Hide”.

  • Mastering on CD releases “Santa Monica”, O Caboverdiano & “Boa Vista” 
    for Cape Verdean guitarist and cavaquinho player Tazinho.

  • Recorded and produced first CD release of poetry and music “When The Smoke Clears” for Corey Cokes.

  • Recorded and produced “Heaven or Hell” for Christian Rap artists B.A.C.

  • Recorded and produced G. Bruce West’s album “Dream Catcher”.

  • Recorded and produced Country artist Wendi Hayden Davis"s record release "What's Next".

  • Performance and arranging credits on European release CD by Roberto Culpado.

  • Recorded and produced music for Edd Kalehoff Productions in New York (music library company).

  • Performance credits on Joel Hiller's second record release "In The Interest of Soul" for Lobelia Records

 

Radio & TV Appearances

  • Ch.10 WCVB on "The Today Show"

  • Ch.6 WLNE " Sounds of Jazz" hosted by Bob Bassett

  • Ch.13 "Musician's Showcase" hosted by Carol Defino.

  • Radio appearance on Boston’s WGBH's" Music America" hosted by Ron DelaChiesa.

  • Radio appearance on Boston’s WGBH's "Jazz in the Evening" hosted by Eric Jackson.

  • Radio appearance on University of Massachusetts/Dartmouth’s WUSM

  • Radio appearance on Brandeis University’s WBRS hosted by Marc Leibowitz,

  • Radio appearance on Newport’s WOTB's "Spotlight on Local Artists" hosted by Michael Troy.

 

Web Design

 

Education

  • Graduate of Berklee College of Music; B.M. in Music Composition.

  • Graduate of New Bedford High School.

  • Recipient of scholarship awards from the following: The Kenneth S. Tripp Memorial Music Scholarship, Berklee College of Music, The Cape Verdean Action Committee, Your Theatre Inc., and The Basic Educational Opportunity Grant.

  • Private studies in saxophone with Prof. Joseph Viola (head of Berklee College’s Woodwind Dept.).

  • Private studies in saxophone with Prof. Bill Pierce (saxophonist for Art Blakey and Tony Williams).

  • Private studies in clarinet and saxophones with Lionel Soares (B.A. Boston Conservatory).

  • Studies in arranging and composition with Prof. Barry Nettles (arranger for Manhattan Transfer, Stan Kenton)

  • Studies in arranging and composition with Prof. Tony Texiera (composer of jingles for corporations: Fayva Shoes, Filenes, etc.,).

  • Private studies in music theory, composition, solfege, and piano with Prof. Jose DaCosta (former head of Composition Dept. New England Conservatory).
 

Teaching Experience

  • Faculty member at Wheaton College teaching Saxophone, Jazz Piano, Jazz Band Director, Saxophone Quartet, Jazz Theory

  • Faculty member at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth teaching Saxophone-Jazz Studies, Saxophone Quartet and The Art & History of Rock & Roll

  • Instructing Old Rochester Regional High School Jazz Band in an after school project, sponsored by the music department's band director, Stan Ellis, to develop improvisational skills.

  • Instructing the New Bedford High School Jazz Band in an after school program, sponsored by the band parent's committee and the music department's jazz band director, Russ Campoli.

  • Private instructor of saxophone, clarinet, piano and organ for more than 20 years.

  • Private instructor of piano and music theory at the Symphony Music Shop

  • Adjudicator for All-State Jazz auditions for RIMEA– Rhode Island Music Educators Association

  • A member of Jazz Expressions an educational outreach program presenting jazz to elementary grade school children.

  • Music instructor for Camp Kennedy program in New Bedford, MA

  • Music instructor for Upward Bound program in Dartmouth, MA.

    Recommendations For Rick from industry people:

“Having worked and traveled in a very busy band with Rick for a number of years I knew Rick to be a very diligent and creative arranger, a versatile instrumentalist, equally fluent on piano and both tenor and soprano saxophone. I also know him to be an inspired teacher and meticulous studio engineer. Highly recommended.” March 21, 2011

1st Kate McGarry, Student, University of Massachusetts, Amherst
worked directly with Rick at TrineArc Music Record Label

“Rick is a MUCH appreciated saxophonist that deserves attention, His work on TrineArc is definitive. He also owns extra outside of being a musician that musicians should practice (Producer&Engineer).” March 19, 2011

1st Terrance Hazly, CEO/Artist/Producer, BSME Music Group Int'l/Island/Def Jam worked with Rick at TrineArc Music Record Label

“I had the pleasure of working with Rick over the years in a jazz combo setting. His ability to compose/arrange great jazz originals was inspiring; and his in-depth understanding of the genre (and other styles of music for that matter) was undeniable. Rick has always had an uncanny ability to understand the intricacies of improvisation, and even as a young man had a desire to share this knowledge with others. As technology became a driving force in the music industry, Rick was quick to adapt and become an expert on music production using computers. He continues to hone his craft and understanding of music and production techniques. I highly recommend Rick.” March 19, 2011

1st Joe Carrier, Freelance Music Director/Multi Keyboardist, Self-employed
worked directly with Rick at TrineArc Music Record Label

“Rick is great. He's been a trendsetter for the forty years I've known him. From his infectious laugh and his optimistic outlook to his knowledge of the art and industry, Rick is a consummate professional. Hire him and whatever from of ensemble he is currently presenting. Study from him on any aspect of your musical education. Find every chance to be around this man. He's a real gem.” March 17, 2011

1st Karl Kummer, Student, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
worked indirectly for Rick at TrineArc Music Record Label

“To Whom It May Concern, 

This letter is to serve as a recommendation for Rick Britto, of TRINEARC MUSIC RECORD LABEL of Boston, MA. 
I have benefitted greatly from conferring with Rick Britto on several occasions due to his rich background in the arts. His contributions to my concerns with jazz photography and visual arts has been vital and well appreciated. 
Mr. Britto has exhibited his deep commitment to the music field as a noted educator, accomplished performer and sound businessman. He possesses indepth knowledge of various music genres and has performed with many high profiled professionals. It is my professional opinion that Rick Britto has the dedication needed to meet any challenges placed before him in the entertainment industry. 

Sincerely, 
Leon P. "Sealey2k" Sealey 
SEALEY2K PRODUCTIONS 
Owner/ Operator 
www.sealey2k.com” March 17, 2011

1st Leon P. "Sealey2k" Sealey, Owner/ Operator, SEALEY2K PRODUCTIONS
worked directly with Rick at TrineArc Music Record Label

“Rick is a fabulous instrumentalist, a gifted composer and a caring educator. He commits to any project he aligns himself with and is well respected by his students and his colleagues.” March 16, 2011

1st Marcelle Gauvin, Faculty, UMass Dartmouth
worked with Rick at TrineArc Music Record Label

“Rick is a dedicated musician and producer and offers a terrific array of services within his company that range from production to arranging to performing. He is a joy to work with .”March 16, 2011

1st rebecca parris, Owner, Parris and Associates
worked directly with Rick at TrineArc Music Record Label

“Rick Britto's playing is at the highest level. He has never ending energy for projects and time to collaborate with fellow composers and musicians to record, engineer and create new work. Rick is very encouraging and inspirational. 
It's a pleasure for me to highly recommend Rick Britto as your First call. 

Joani 
Taylor 
http://www.joanitaylor.com” March 16, 2011

1st Joani Taylor, Singer, writer, producer, teacher, mentor., http://www.joanitaylor.com
worked directly with Rick at TrineArc Music Record Label

“Rick is a terrific musician and a great leader. Students at Wheaton enjoy working with him, and he gets great results!” March 16, 2011

1st Delvyn Case, Assistant Professor of Music and Conductor of the Great Woods Chamber Orchestra, Wheaton College
worked directly with Rick at TrineArc Music Record Label

“Rick Britto is an acclaimed musician (saxophonist, pianist, composer) who has performed for the UMass Dartmouth concert series multiple times. Every performance has been exceptional and enthusiastically received by the audience. His latest CD combines his own thoughtful compositions with his powerful playing, making for a lyrical, emotionally moving recording.” March 16, 2011

Top qualities: Great Results, Expert, High Integrity

1st Will Riley, 
hired Rick as a musician in 2005, and hired Rick more than once

“Rick.. designed my web site... He did an excellent job and serviced it as web master for several years. Very easy to work with, reliable and smart. 
Best Wishes 
Dan Moretti 
Professor 
Berklee College of Music 
Boston” March 16, 2011

Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Expert

1st Dan Moretti, 
hired Rick as a Graphic/Web Designer in 2005, and hired Rick more than once

“Rick and I were colleagues on the jazz faculty at U Mass Dartmouth. Rick is a great teacher, player and arranger in all styles of music. Fantastic musician and warm person. I recommend him highly.” March 16, 2011

1st Paul Shumsky, Jazz Guitar Instructor, U Mass Dartmouth
worked directly with Rick at TrineArc Music Record Label

 

“Professor Rick Britto was a fantastic resource for me while I was at Wheaton College as a student of music. Besides being an amazing musician, he is an excellent teacher. I really enjoyed his course "Africian American Originals II" which discussed the latter half of music in the 20th century from early Jazz up to contemporary R&B, hip hop, and rap. Rick teaches with an enthusiasm rarely seen in higher level education and his vast knowledge of the jazz genre and musicians made the class a real pleasure to take. 

I also worked with Rick in the capacity of vocal performance. He helped me transition from my more comfortable zone of classical voice into jazz vocal performance. I really appreciated that he let us select the pieces we wished to sing and then would transpose them or make any necessary changes and arrangements for the rest of the band. This talent is rarely seen in combo groups and it is extremely beneficial to the singer. My performances with him were some of my most memorable in my time at Wheaton and I owe him a great deal of thanks. 

Finally, I would like to endorse Rick in any of his endeavors. His music is exquisite and complex and it is a pleasure to listen to, his teaching his top notch, and he is an excellent professional resource for anyone interested in learning about jazz. I would entertain any further conversation regarding Professor Rick Britto with great satisfaction.” June 9, 2011

1st Jordan Trundy, Student, Wheaton College

 
 

 

“Rick teaches with a profoundly deep cultural and theoretical knowledge of music. Working with Rick has been an invaluable experience.” March 24, 2011

1st Jonathan Phillips, Student, Wheaton College