Unfortunately, Dick matured after the end of the big band era and chose the life of a well-respected studio musician over that of a creative jazz player. Starting in 1947, Dick worked with the big bands of Sam Donahue, Glen Gray and Tex Beneke. He served in the military from 1950-52 (playing in an Army band part of the time) and after his discharge was with Billy May's popular orchestra in 1953. After leaving May, Dick settled in Los Angeles and became an in-demand studio musician. In later years Dick was often called on to recreate swing era solos (particularly those of Tommy Dorsey) but never led his own record session. ~ Scott Yanow