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Emigrant Eyes Individual Bios

- Billy Hickey
It seems as if Bill Hickey was born playing the accordion. He never took lessons, just learned to play by listening to others. His talent in playing the accordion, especially traditional Irish songs, is known throughout New York.

Bill was born and raised in Glenpatrick, Waterford, Ireland and credits much of his ear for music to listening to his family members playing and singing traditional Irish songs.

Bill played in many Irish pubs, numerous weddings and for just about anyone who would listen, while he lived in his native Ireland. When he came to America in 1969 with his young family, he supplemented his income by playing in many venues with many accomplished Irish musicians and singers.

Some of the many places he played and with many truly talented musicians are:

  • Beginning in 1965 doing numerous broadcasts on Radio Erin.
  • The John Barleycorn (NYC), New York Towerview Ballroom and Jaegerhouse during the years 1969- 1975.
  • Became the Champion All Ireland Player during the 1960's.
  • Carnegie Hall with the Irish All Stars in 1971.
  • Lincoln Center with the Irish Emerald Concert in 1978.

Once you listen to Bill, either live or on CD, you will quickly come to appreciate his unique talent, as much as his family, friends and fellow musicians have come to appreciate his music.


- Rich Micallef
Born and raised in the Sunset Park section of Brooklyn, New York. Rich was born with musical roots. His grandfather, played flute and piccolo with Brooklyn Symphony, while his uncle Raymond was 1st Violinist with "The Navy Band."

Rich began taking classical piano lessons at the age of five and by the time he was eight, he started teaching himself the guitar. Growing up in an Irish neighborhood and attending St. Agatha, Rich was introduced and taught traditional Irish Music by his music teacher Sr. Mary Beata Gerrity. It would be 25 years later when Rich finally started playing on the Irish scene and playing Irish festivals in cities like: Fort Myers, Cleveland, Buffalo and of course, all across the New York Metropolitan area.

Rich got into his first garage rock and roll band at the age of fourteen. When he was eighteen, he was asked to join, by his good friend John Tracey, the rock 'n' roll band "Storm watch," which later was better known as "Nasty Habits." They enjoyed playing together across the metropolitan area for five years. With college graduation looming, the band went their separate ways. "It was a great experience and we made good and lasting friendships" says Rich.

Rich also plays numerous private parties and venues each year and has appeared on Local Television and Radio, along with a recent appearance at "The Rainbow Room" in Manhattan.

Being influenced by artists such as: Billy Joel, Elton John, and James Taylor to name a few, Rich brings a contemporary flare to the traditional Irish sounds which he learned as a child.

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