Bio

Rick Haydon, Professor Emeritus at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, boasts a rich legacy as a stalwart in jazz education and performance. During his tenure, he served as Director of Jazz Studies, spearheaded the Guitar Program, and managed the university's esteemed recording studio. Though now an Emeritus, Rick's passion for music endures as he continues to teach Private Applied Jazz Guitar and direct the Jazz Guitar Ensemble.

Rick's expertise extends beyond academia, as he has shared his knowledge and talent on the summer faculties of prestigious institutions such as the Jazz at Lincoln Center Band Director Academy and the Birch Creek Music Center. Additionally, he serves as a clinician for The Essentially Ellington Organization, further solidifying his role as a leading figure in jazz education.

With a musical journey spanning over five decades, Rick Haydon has been a dedicated student of jazz guitar, studying under luminaries such as Johnny Smith, Howard Roberts, Pat Martino, and the late Bucky Pizzarelli, whose influence is evident in Rick's mastery of the 7-string guitar.

Professionally, Rick's career spans over fifty-six years, marked by captivating performances and notable collaborations. From sharing the stage with legends like Herb Ellis and Mundell Lowe at the Guitar Foundation of America International Guitar Convention in 1996 to performing alongside Bucky Pizzarelli in sold-out concerts at prestigious venues like the Sheldon Concert Hall and Jazz at the Bistro in St. Louis, Rick's contributions to the jazz landscape are unparalleled.

Rick's prowess as a guitarist and educator has been celebrated on numerous occasions. In 2002, he was the featured guest artist at the Quad City Jazz Festival, where he captivated audiences alongside jazz titan Mulgrew Miller. In 2004, Rick showcased his talent alongside John Pizzarelli at the Classic American Guitar Show in Long Island, New York, as part of the esteemed Jazz Cabaret Series. His remarkable contributions earned him the esteemed 2004 Woody Herman Award from the Birch Creek Music Performance Center in Door County, Wisconsin.

In addition to his teaching and performing endeavors, Rick has left an indelible mark on the recording industry. His collaboration with John Pizzarelli on "Just Friends" for Mel Bay Records soared to number 12 on the Jazz Week Top 100 charts in 2006. His latest endeavor, "4" on Jazz Compass with Clay Jenkins, Gary Hobbs, and Reggie Thomas, showcases his versatility and artistry. In 2021, Rick co-produced John Pizzarelli's "Better Days Ahead" CD for Ghostlight Records, further solidifying his impact on the jazz scene.

With each endeavor, Rick Haydon continues to push the boundaries of jazz guitar, leaving an enduring legacy and inspiring generations of musicians to come.