Ricki Rizzo
Professional Jazz Vocalist
Ricki Rizzo is a jazz vocalist from Long Island, New York. Her journey into jazz began in high school, where she was recognized as an Outstanding Soloist at an Essentially Ellington Jazz Festival and collaborated with various artists at the Long Island University Post Jazz Day.
Beyond the festival stage, Ricki has established herself as a versatile performer. She has held a residency at the Helmway restaurant in the Pell Hotel, Middletown, RI, and is a featured vocalist for J-Riz Entertainment & Productions, performing at weddings and various events across Long Island. Ricki also leads her own Trio and Quartet, headlining at venues such as the General Stanton Inn and Ou La La Cafe & Lounge. Additionally, she has showcased her vocal talents with the New London Big Band.
A prominent figure on the festival circuit, Ricki will most recently headline the inaugural General Stanton Inn Jazz Festival on August 9, 2025. She recently opened for acclaimed jazz pianist Emmet Cohen at the Litchfield Jazz Festival. Her impressive festival record also includes opening for renowned jazz saxophonist Alexa Tarantino at the same festival in 2024. She has also performed at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival for two consecutive years in 2023 and 2024.
CUNY Queens College
Ricki is excited to continue her academic and artistic journey by pursuing a Master of Music in Jazz Studies at CUNY Queens College. With its strong program, seasoned faculty, and close proximity to New York City's vibrant music scene, Queens College offers the perfect environment to deepen her artistry and grow as both a performer and educator. Building on her Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance, Ricki brings a strong foundation and a growing passion for sharing music with others.
Over the past two years, she has worked as a Resident Assistant at the Litchfield Jazz Camp, where she recently led a student ensemble rehearsal, an experience that sparked a newfound love for teaching.
As she embarks on this next chapter, Ricki looks forward to composing and releasing more original music while continuing to inspire and mentor the next generation of musicians.
University of Rhode Island
A dedicated musician with a strong educational foundation, Ricki Rizzo holds a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance from the University of Rhode Island. She pursued her studies under the guidance of Professor Atla DeChamplain, while also actively participating in a wide range of the university's musical ensembles. These included the Vocal Jazz Choir "In The Pocket," Dave Zinno’s Standards Combo, URI Big Band, URI Afro-Cuban Jazz Combo, Symphony Orchestra, and Concert Choir. In addition to her vocal studies, Ricki brings over 12 years of experience as a proficient performer on both the violin and orchestral percussion.