About Us
Mike and Miriam Risko, Founders of Mike Risko Music
Established in 1995, Mike Risko Music has been a cornerstone of the local music community in Ossining, New York. Founders Mike and Miriam Risko transformed their passion for music into a thriving center for music education, retail and performance.
Mike Risko is an accomplished guitarist who has played with many bands. He has authored four guitar method books and designed the curriculum for the Mike Risko Music School. Mike serves on the boards of the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) and the Ossining Chamber of Commerce.
Miriam Risko, an accomplished vocalist and piano player, holds a degree in Communications and Literature with a minor in Musical Theater. She studied at Ithaca College, NYU, and Pace University, where she graduated. Miriam has performed with many bands in the area, created Make Music Day Ossining and Briarcliff, and served on the Ossining PTA, including as Council President. Her contributions to the community were recognized with the 914 Inc. Women in Business Award.
Together, Mike and Miriam founded Mike Risko Music and formed The Mike Risko Band, which has been entertaining audiences for over two decades. Their earlier band, Lucy's Frantic, played at major events like South Street Seaport’s July 4th celebrations. They are also committed to using their music to support the community, often performing at charity events and local festivals.
Mike Risko Music serves hundreds of students weekly, offering music lessons for all ages in a wide range of instruments and styles. The music school also features a full-service music store, providing quality instruments, rentals and repairs. They carry a wide selection of brands. Their unique programs include rock band camps, musical theater workshops, and community recitals, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all musicians.
Their contributions to music education and the community have been recognized with 22 Best of Westchester awards, including Best Music School, Best Music Store, Best Unique Birthday Parties, Best Live Band, Best Afterschool Program, and Best Adult Classes. They have been named a Top 100 Music Store in the world by NAMM for 11 consecutive years, including Best Community Music Retail Store in 2021. Additionally, they received the NYS Empire Award in 2021 for their contributions to community.
Mike and Miriam are heavily involved with the National Association of Music Merchants, participating yearly in NAMM U to educate and share best practices with their peers. They also participate in the NAMM Fly-In, lobbying for music education and representing New York in Washington, D.C. Miriam is also involved with Women of NAMM, furthering her commitment to the industry.
The Riskos have been instrumental in revitalizing RiverJam, Ossining's concert series, helping to amplify its impact. They coordinate many concerts and events throughout the community, bringing people together through the power of music.
Mike Risko Music also offers an online store through their website, providing convenient access to their extensive inventory of musical instruments and accessories.
The Riskos have two children and love spending time with family. Music is not just their career, it is also their hobby and they spend a lot of their time playing music and seeing live music.
Our Commitment: At Mike Risko Music, we believe in the transformative power of music. We are dedicated to providing top-quality music education, instruments, and services to our community. Through our programs and performances, we strive to inspire a lifelong love of music, empower individuals, and strengthen the bonds within our community.
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