Meet Tony Richards of Tony Richards Guitar

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tony Richards.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Tony. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Born in Brooklyn NY (1959). My parents were opera singers. Despite my parent’s classical training I taught myself how to play music. Guitar was the perfect instrument for me. I started when I was around 10 and have now played for 48 years. I had bands in high school, played in college and then throughout my adult life played music as much as possible. I worked in finance for roughly 25 years and played music in my spare time. The finance career allowed me to support my family. I still do some work and am involved in a software company – Navvia.

My music interests became more focused towards jazz as I became friends with several key people who took me under their wing and gave me the opportunity. Specifically, a friend of mine, Matt Warnock, introduced me around, gave me guidance, and also an opportunity to play jazz as I progressed. Matt introduced me to other key people, like the great luthier Dan Koentopp and fine guitarist Roddy Ellias. These are some of my closest friends. Also, over time I became a friend of Chicago’s own Andy Brown who I go see as often as possible.

The common element was a great love of music and specific attention to playing jazz guitar using “finger-style” technique. This was a lot of hard work for me and I threw myself into it with great enthusiasm and effort. In the past 3 years, I have carved out a niche in the Chicago music scene and have got to play overseas and specifically in Atlanta. Because of my unique approach and ability as an arranger, I have gotten to work with some fantastic singers as their primary accompanist.

I am also known for my work as a solo jazz guitarist. As a writer and performer, I have formed the Tony Richards Trio with two excellent players – Larry Beers and Rafe Bradford. We play regularly and have put out a live album. At 58 years old, I am very fortunate to be living my dream of playing music. Deep down in my heart, it is where I have always wanted to be.

Has it been a smooth road?
No. The road is always bumpy and the bumps are the great teachers. One has to take a risk and fail in order to succeed. In addition, I have had great personal challenges. The amount of time and effort to; raise a family, hold down a demanding job, deal with family health issues, was at times exhausting.

Also, to put yourself out there as a musician in a what I feel is a challenging area such as jazz was a bit terrifying. I played some really bad gigs, but as I said earlier it became the fuel for me to focus and get better. I am still struggling to get better and try new things. Lastly, the business side is very difficult – making sure my bandmates get paid etc.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Tony Richards Guitar – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I currently have 3 areas that I do work in as a guitarist/arranger/composer.

Working with singers – I have two projects that I am currently active in. One is with Rachel Drew where we perform our interpretations of classic jazz standards and Bossa Nova. The other is with Phil Angotti where we play some of Phil’s compositions along with our own interpretations of pop songs.

Tony Richards Trio – this project is with Larry Beers on drums and Rafe Bradford on bass. The trio plays my compositions along with music from Miles Davis, Jobim, Django Reinhardt, Benny Goodman etc.

Solo Guitarist – I perform songs from the jazz spectrum and reach into some other areas to do my own interpretations, along with my own compositions.

What sets me apart is my finger-style technique – a bit unusual and very melodic for a guitarist, work as a composer – many jazz performers do not play their own compositions, desire to make jazz accessible – I often play in venues that one wouldn’t normally hear jazz in. I am particularly excited about this aspect because I believe jazz is a great and unique tradition and I want people to hear it in a fun setting that lets them relax and become fans.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
Best – I love the people in Chicago. I have great friends and relationships that I cherish.

Least – the amount of suffering that I see from poverty and violence.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tonyrichardsguitar.com
• Phone: 630-926-7568
• Email: anthonyrichards1@me.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tonyrichardsguitar/

Image Credit:
Julie Fabiszak

Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.