Rick Montalbano has been playing drums professionally since the age of 13. His father, a pianist and organist, provided him with a solid foundation in the jazz tradition from an early age. Growing up in this musical environment offered him unique exposure to world-class musicians, including legendary saxophonists Sal Nistico and J.R. Monterose. Years later, he would win the very first J.R. Monterose Memorial Scholarship.
While in high school, Rick was selected as one of five young musicians to be awarded a scholarship from the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts, a prestigious international competition. In addition to scholarship money, the finalists were awarded Clifford Brown/Stan Getz Fellowships and played a series of concerts at the 1996 IAJE Convention.
In 1997, Rick moved to New York City where he was awarded a full scholarship to the Manhattan School of Music. His talents were quickly recognized, and he began working with some of the finest musicians in the world including Brad Mehldau, Phil Woods, Randy Brecker and Clark Terry. He also completed several recordings including two with virtuoso tenor saxophonist Ari Ambrose (Steely Dan).
For the past six years, Rick has been the drummer for world-renowned vocalist Jane Monheit, whose group has toured the globe in support of a series of acclaimed albums. Their recording, Taking a Chance on Love, debuted at #1 and remained on the Billboard Jazz chart for over a year. Since then, they’ve recorded a live DVD, a holiday themed album titled The Season, and the 2007 release Surrender.
