Classically trained and soulfully raised, this life long musician never stops learning. As a child Rick Purcell could “feel the rhythm” being a member of a very musical family. His father, Jack Purcell is a legendary Pittsburgh musician. Growing up in Pittsburgh, Rick had his own Rock ‘N Roll Bands in high school and college. While earning his Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance from Carnegie Mellon University, Rick was often working 6 or 7 nights per week in the area’s leading rock clubs. By the time he graduated from college, Rick had worked almost every type of job imaginable, from the a bikers convention in a field in Irwin, PA, to wedding receptions and debutante parties at The Duquesne Club, The Pittsburgh Golf Club, and The Rolling Rock Club in Ligonier, PA
Rick has performed for Presidents of The United States, presidential candidates, leading corporations in Pittsburgh, conventions, charity balls in Pittsburgh and other locations. Rich and his musicians have performed at a wide range of private party including well over 2,000 wedding receptions. His bands are well known for their musical excellence as well as their versatility. They are in their comfort zone with music from the Big Band Era, The 50s, 60s (Motown), 70s (disco) 80s, 90s, and current hit music.
Rick and his musicians have also backed up many famous entertainers over the years including; Bobby Vinton, Wayne Newton, The Temptations, The Coasters, Platters, and Drifters, Anne Murray, Smokey Robinson, James Brown , Tom Jones, Jim Nabors, Mickey Dolenz (from “The Monkees”), and others.
Rick Purcell’s goal and mission is to provide his clients with high quality live music in a sophisticated manner to create the perfect memory that each client and each event deserves.
SHARI RICHARDS
Shari
has traveled a far
different path before she joined forces with Rick Purcell. An
award-winning blues/rock vocalist, she has performed in the area's best
blues & rock night clubs, as well as concerts, festivals, and college
campuses. She has performed regularly at Jimmy Buffet's
Margaritaville in Key West, Florida, as well as traveling to Europe to
perform in Greece, France and other locations. She has performed
at the Byham in "Tommy" and "Beehive." A musical and stage
chameleon, able to transform form her musical background to perform the
songs of the big band era with style and grace. She has a dynamic
stage appearance, adding showmanship and excitement to any event!