Richard occupies a unique place in the musical life of his native Scotland, as he has the versatility to improvise on any theme, in any key and in any given style. 

He has a virtuosic piano technique enabling him to give recitals on “The History of Jazz Piano”, encompassing every major jazz pianist from Fats Waller to Keith Jarrett.  

He has directed the award winning Fife Youth Jazz Orchestra since its inception in 1976, and many of his former players are leading figures in the UK jazz scene. 

He is Honorary Professor of Jazz Piano at the University of St Andrews, and leads improvisation workshops throughout the UK and Europe. He can improvise a fugue/blues/standard/eightsome reel at a moment’s notice! 

He is a prolific composer and arranger and has released 6 CDs, the most recent of which is “Contemplation”. 

His most recent book is “Jazz Piano for Kids” published by Hal Leonard (and according to Richard, the book won’t go wrong for adults!)