Rico Cruse Backstage Pass
Music Student Spotlight
Meet Rico Cruse:
Your Next High-Impact Music Scholar
This is your all‑access, backstage look at Rico’s sound, story, and stage presence curated specifically for college music programs seeking driven, coachable, and performance‑ready talent. Rico is a vocal major at Las Vegas Academy of the Arts High School.
Get a direct line to Rico's booking team (Mom) in one click.
Primary Focus: Modern performance, ensemble collaboration, and live stage leadership.
Location: Local community talent, eager and available for campus visits and auditions.
Ideal Fit: Programs that value grit, versatility, and stage-ready performers.
Live performance still from Rico’s recent community showcase event.
Highlight Reel: On stage & in the community
Music Achievements
ACDA National Conference (Dallas, TX) - 2025 , Performing Ensemble
ACDA Nevada All-State Choir - 2025, 2026
Clark County School District Honors Choir – 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026
Southern Nevada Musical Arts Society – 2025
Sing out! Tenor/Bass Festival – 2024, 2025
NMEA All State Choir 2026
HMS Pinafore, Opera Las Vegas Youth Chorus – 2024
4+ Years
of dedicated music training and live performance.
20+ Shows
community events, showcases, and school performances.
3 Ensembles
active roles across school and community groups.
100% Coachable
known for preparation, punctuality, and follow‑through.
Backstory
The Student Behind the Spotlight
My name is Jericho “Rico” Cruse, and I am a vocalist and student leader based in Las Vegas, Nevada. I study vocal music in the Music Conservatory at Las Vegas Academy of the Arts, where I serve as a Bass Section Leader and perform in multiple advanced ensembles. I have been selected as a member of the American Choral Directors Association All State Choir in both 2025 and 2026, and I regularly participate in honor choirs, regional festivals, and national level vocal programs. These experiences have strengthened my musicianship, discipline, and love for performance.
Alongside my music studies, I am pursuing college level coursework in commercial music and maintaining strong academics. I was named Student of the Month in November 2024, an honor that reflects my commitment to excellence both in and out of the classroom. Music is my primary focus, but I take pride in being a well rounded student who values leadership.
Beyond the stage, I am passionate about entrepreneurship and community service. I founded a youth led business at a young age and later expanded my work into mentoring, public speaking, and youth advocacy. I have served on youth boards, partnered with city and nonprofit organizations, and currently represent Nevada Partners as a Youth Entrepreneurship Ambassador. Whether performing, leading, or serving, my goal is to use my voice to connect with others and create meaningful impact.
I am also actively involved with Young Biz Kidz (YBK), a youth entrepreneurship program. I served as the Nevada State Ambassador for four years, representing youth entrepreneurship across the state and mentoring peers to develop business skills and create community impact.
Rico leading a business workshop bridging performance and leadership.
Roots in the local community. Rico’s journey started in neighborhood programs and school music rooms, where he learned early that showing up prepared matters as much as natural talent.
High-energy performer, grounded student. Teachers describe Rico as focused, respectful, and motivated. On stage, that translates into tight timing, strong dynamics, and a willingness to take direction in real time.
Ready for the next level. Rico is actively exploring college programs where he can grow as a performer, collaborator, and leader while contributing to ensembles from day one.
Musical Interests
Live performance, ensemble work, modern and contemporary styles, arranging parts for small groups, and learning from experienced directors.
Strengths Directors Notice
- Shows up early, stays late, and asks for feedback
- Keeps calm under pressure and adjusts quickly on stage
- Encourages peers and contributes to a positive rehearsal culture
Academic Mindset
Rico approaches classes the same way he approaches rehearsals—prepared, respectful, and willing to put in the reps when something is challenging.
Purpose Beyond Performance
Rico’s impact beyond the stage: community leadership and entrepreneurship
Outside of music, I am an entrepreneur, author, and youth leader who is passionate about creating opportunities for other young people. I founded Rico’s Rockin’ Pop, a growing business that ships my signature candied corn puffs to customers across the country. I am also the author of Rico Rocks at Problem Solving, a children’s book that encourages young people to think creatively and overcome challenges.
I enjoy sharing what I’ve learned about entrepreneurship with other youth through programs like Start Up Kids Camp and the How to Fund Your Summer Fun workshop series, where I help young people explore business ideas and learn how to turn their creativity into income. Through community events, youth programs, and service initiatives, I hope to inspire other young people to pursue their goals, think like entrepreneurs, and give back to their communities.
For College Recruiters & Program Directors
Backstage Access Begins Here
Use this form to request a conversation, share audition requirements, or ask for additional materials tailored to your program.
- Schedule a video call or campus visit
- Request specific repertoire or audition pieces
- Get full performances, recommendation letters, and academic info
Response time: You can expect a reply from Rico and his support team within 1–2 business days.
Bring Rico’s Energy to Your Campus
If you’re building a program around drive, discipline, and performance-ready talent, Rico is ready for his next stage.
You’ll receive a confirmation email with next steps and direct contact details.