Richard Knechtel is a much-in-demand performer for festivals, concerts and special event shows. His confident, creative and friendly performances have charmed audiences throughout North America.
Armed with an enormous repertoire of songs – swing, pop, novelty, blues, country, comedy and folk; he can chose just the right tunes for any occasion. He accompanies these songs with dynamic guitar playing and virtuoso harmonica work. From wry commentary to completely comic send-ups, touching all the emotional bases, he entertains!
Knechtel was the Artistic Director of the Summerfolk Music & Crafts Festival from 2007 – 2011 drawing accolades from the music community for his excellent programming. He is the recipient of an Owen Sound Cultural Award for Music, he has served as a Board member for ArtsCan Circle and he founded the Songs from the Heart competition for the Ontario Council of Folk Festivals
Richard also spends a great deal of time as his alter ego children’s performer Dickie Bird. Action packed shows filled with magic, props and lots of audience participation.
Richard Knechtel 