Get To Know Rich

Candidate for State Representative – PA 115

Rich Szabo isn’t a career politician — he’s a small business owner, musician, teacher, and neighbor who believes common sense should guide Pennsylvania’s government.

About Rich

Born March 16, 1956, in Newark, New Jersey, Rich began playing trumpet at age nine and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He built a distinguished career performing with legendary artists including Maynard Ferguson, Buddy Rich, Tony Bennett, and Frank Sinatra.

For decades, Rich worked alongside people from every walk of life. Life on the road and on stage meant long hours, constant preparation, and the ability to collaborate with individuals who often had very different personalities, backgrounds, and viewpoints. In music, as in life, success depends on listening carefully, respecting others, and working together toward a common goal.

Beyond the stage, he mentored young musicians and led his own jazz orchestra, teaching discipline, preparation, and accountability. He believes those same values — showing up prepared, doing your homework, and respecting different perspectives — are exactly what’s missing in too much of today’s politics.

Rich is also a co-founder of Zaja Musical Products a manufacturer of musical accessories for brass instruments and has owned Buck Hill Firearms LLC for more than a decade. As a small business owner in a highly regulated industry, he understands firsthand the impact of taxes, regulation, and state policy on working families and entrepreneurs. A certified NRA instructor, he believes constitutional rights and personal responsibility go hand in hand.

Through his businesses and community involvement, Rich has listened to neighbors concerned about rising costs, education standards, and public safety. Like many families in the 115th District, he feels the government has grown disconnected from everyday life. He believes leadership means delivering results using common sense — not political theater.

Rich lives in Pocono Summit with his wife, Beverly, and their two dogs, Daisy Mae and Chase. When he’s not working or performing, he enjoys spending time outdoors and appreciating the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains. His connection to the community isn’t political — it’s personal.

His priorities are clear:

Lower taxes
Restore accountability in education
Protect constitutional rights
Support law enforcement
Put families and local communities first

After decades of real-world experience in music, business, and community service, Rich Szabo is ready to bring steady, practical leadership to Harrisburg.

Common Sense for PA 115.