About
About Ricky
Ricky Chilcott was born and raised in North Royalton, Ohio, a small suburb of Cleveland. There he took drum lessons and purchased his first microphone -- an Oktava MK319. He studied drums throughout middle school and high school, playing in concert orchestras, jazz ensembles, jazz combos, and a rock band or two.
He started attending Ohio University in the Fall of 2004 and majored in Audio Production, with a minor in music. During his first year he continued his study of drum set, played in the Ohio University Jazz Ensemble, and became involved in Brick City Records, Ohio University's student-run record label.
Because of his involvement with the record label, he expanded his interests to the business side of the music industry and later added a business minor. His interest grew into a passion for both recording music and getting it out to the 'people' and led to a two year reign as the record label's president.
He has since moved on from Brick City Records, although not completely, but has stayed at Ohio University to work on a Masters in Media Management. He started in the Fall and is trying to tackle the challenges of academia with the same ferocity that he pursues both recording and releasing music.
His Philosphy
His philosophy, as most classically trained musicians go, is that of 'selective minimalism'. What, may you ask, is selective minimalism? Recording specifically, and music generally, is about creating art with the tools that are available to the musicians and the recording engineers and producers. While he certainly is ready to use the studio as an instrument, he wants to make sure that the musicians and play the part first.
He has sat through too many recording sessions putting this snare drum hit here and that marimba note there. While truly impressive, todays recording tools make it too easy for the musician to play a few notes, while the technology is poked and prodded to make an attempt at music. He will have none of that. When you record with Ricky, he will expect you to work to get the best take you are capable of, just as you should expect him to get the best sound possible.
Choosing the right person to work on your project can be a daunting task. But remember, no matter who you choose: with a great sounding instrument, a talented musician, and an aware engineer -- great music is possible and inevitable.