Rick Spano is one of the Northwest's premiere drummers and drumming instructors but actually began his musical career playing accordion. His father, Joe Spano, one of the Northwest's premiere accordionists, had an accordion in Rick’s lap at age 5.
After four years of studying accordion Rick found his true love- DRUMS. He began studying with Keith Purvis. After 8 years with Keith he played in the Highline Community College Jazz Band and the Fred Radke (former trumpeter with Harry James) Band.
Rick continued his education in Edison, New Jersey with Charlie Tapp, former teacher for Buddy Rich. After that Rick returned to Seattle to study under Bill Cottic.
Rick returned to active playing performing with jazz pianist Overton Berry, Larry Coryell, Diane Schuur, Bruce Phares, Art Foxall, and Lil Brown. Rick has since performed with Roger Fisher, Randy Hansen, Herb Ellis, Scott Rosburg, Joe Spano, Rod Cook, Noel Redding, Buddy Miles, Mitch Mitchell, and several others. Rick is presently performing with the Overton Berry Trio, the Randy Hansen Band, the Scott Rosburg Project and the Tim Turner Band.
