Richard DiFiore, Music Director and Principal Pianist, holds a Masters Degree from the University of Florida in piano performance. Richard has been in high demand as a dance accompanist for many years and taught at Florida State University as a Visiting Professor in the School of Dance before coming to Mercyhurst. In addition to his duties here, he has played for many summer dance programs and intensives including American Dance Festival, American College Dance Association, Chatauqua Institute and Perry-Mansfield Summer Dance Intensive. Richard is also an accomplished collaborative pianist and has accompanied many recitals both instrumental and vocal and is active as a vocal coach for singers. In addition to playing for both Ballet and Modern classes, Richard teaches Music for Dancers at Mercyhurst University.