Rick’s Chance to Become a Maestro

Do you remember where your imagination took you when you were a child? Rick, age 70, recalls many lively afternoons parading around to John Philip Sousa’s marches as the conductor of his own imaginary marching band.

Rick’s love of music led him to learn trumpet in middle school, and he became a proud member of his high school band. One day, Rick’s band director invited him to step in and conduct the group during rehearsal.

Rick has never forgotten the feeling when he picked up the baton and looked out at the musicians before him. At that moment, Rick’s dream of becoming a Maestro was born!

Motivated by his father’s military service during the Vietnam War, Rick continued the family legacy by joining the Air Force. He became a software developer and was honored to use his technical skills to support the nation’s safety. But Rick did not leave music behind. He volunteered for the funeral detail as a bugler, playing “Taps,” the distinct melody that honors those who gave their lives in service to the United States.

Rick’s devotion to serving his country matches his dedication to his family. For many years, he has been a caretaker for his wife, selflessly supporting his family.

After a lifetime of playing music, Rick yearned to take his passion to the next level by conducting. But he did not have the extra time, resources, or connections to make it happen.

“There is not much time for my pursuits,” he shared. “Getting to conduct a single piece of music would boost my self-esteem and joie de vivre.”

When we heard Rick’s story, we were thrilled to help him fulfill his dream. To begin his path to Maestro, Rick first took a private lesson with Dr. Evan Feldman, a professor of music at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Evan treated Rick just like his students, giving him the same detailed instruction on how to lead an ensemble effectively.

For the first time in many years, Rick experienced the thrill of learning something new and was determined to master it!

He practiced relentlessly, knowing his time to shine was just around the corner. “Every time I was in the car, I randomly picked a snippet of the “1812 Overture” in my head and conducted it while I drove,” he shared.

After a week of practicing at home, Rick was ready for the next rehearsal… this time with the musicians! Rick bravely stepped up to the podium and conducted a wind ensemble arrangement of the iconic “1812 Overture” by Pyotr Tchaikovsky with the UNC Wind Ensemble.

Although he was full of nervous energy when he stepped up to the podium, Rick felt in sync with the band, who smiled and nodded with encouragement as they played.

“It was joy, the greatest joy,” Rick said. “I felt so supported through the whole thing. It was an encouraging feeling like, ‘Wow, I am lucky.’” After the rehearsal concluded, Evan told Rick his hard work had paid off, saying, “You’re a lot better than you were last week.”

Rick continued to practice in preparation for one more opportunity. This time, he joined North Carolina’s Triangle Wind Ensemble to try his hand at Maestro again.

As Rick conducted the ensemble, his family glowed joyfully from the audience as they watched him fulfill a lifelong dream.

“My daughter said, ‘I am so proud of you for doing this.’ Nothing can beat your kid telling you how proud of you they are,” Rick shared.

But she wasn’t the only one to share her admiration.

“Since they have instruments in their hands, most orchestras stamp their feet to show their approval,” Rick explained. “All of a sudden, the ensemble began stamping their feet! That really got to me. The reception of the musicians was so caring, gentle, and supportive. The adults, as much as the kids, were grinning.”

After his wish, Rick shared his gratitude for this experience and the wonderful people he met.

“From the smallest piccolo player to the largest percussionist, you have all played a big role in allowing me to have a 60-year-old dream come true… you are all on my list of heroes,” he said.

Rick felt proud and fulfilled after pursuing his dream, and he’s been encouraging others to do the same.

“Go for it,” he said. “Even if you’re shy or uncertain about something, if you know how much it would make you happy, do it.”