Rick Gardner is a former student of Joe Allen at Muhlenberg Central High School.  His music studies include percussion study 1975-76 with Mr. Chuck Simons and 1976-80 with Dr. Tom Vanarsdel, both of Murray State University.  While at MSU, Mr. Gardner participated in many ensembles including principle timpanist for the Murray State Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble and Brass Choir.  He also played auxiliary percussion, vibraphone and guitar in the Phi Mu Alpha "Men of Note" Jazz Band and "Campus Lights".  He marched in the "Murray State Racer Band" from 1975 to 1978, where he was the percussion arranger and section leader for two years.  Mr. Gardner was also a charter member of the Murray State University Percussion Ensemble.

Rick's duties include Percussion Instructor and Percussion Arranger for the Muhlenberg North High School Marching Band,  Director of the Muhlenberg North Middle School and High School Percussion Ensembles and private instruction for several students in the area.  The Muhlenberg North Percussion Ensembles have received consecutive distinguished ratings since their formation in 2003.  Many of the Muhlenberg North percussion students have received distinguished ratings and been members of area honors bands including several members of the Kentucky All-State Bands.

Mr. Gardner is a member of the Kentucky Music Educators Association, Music Educators National Conference, and the Percussive Arts Society.   He is currently serving as the Western Representative and Webmaster for the Percussive Arts Society Kentucky Chapter. 

Rick is the webmaster for many music related websites in Kentucky.  He is also the founder and webmaster for the Kentucky Bands Website at www.kyband.com. 

Rick lives near Greenville, Kentucky with his wife, Tammy and daughter, Katie.  You may find additional information at rickgardner.com.