Rich Eckert | Cello

Cellist Rich Eckert has performed with Yo Yo Ma, Bobby McFerrin, and The Eagles; and played for movies starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tom Cruise, and Steve Martin. Rich earned his doctorate from the Eastman School of Music, and then taught cello at Colgate University, New Mexico State University, and Hamilton College. He’s also performed with the Seattle Symphony.

His musical highlights, Rich says, include performing and recording with his musical family, The Bird Tribe Orchestra, performing in The Ring cycle with Seattle Opera, and playing alongside his “prodigious mates” in Joy Street.

Rich joined Joy Street in 2009, and says, “I love finding my spot in the sound.”

In addition to his life as a cellist, Rich maintains a fulfilling career as an RN with Evergreen Health Home Hospice. When not music-ing and hospice-ing, you might spot him frolicking with his family, walking Nico the Corgi, or acing a crossword puzzle. 

Something surprising about Rich: “One of my favorite songs is The Pot by Tool.”

Rich’s favorite dessert: Tiramisu, of course.