Riccardo Baldini is an accomplished disabled pianist, innovator, and entrepreneur whose work challenges perceptions and pushes boundaries in music, business, and accessibility. 

A T6 paraplegic, Riccardo is the world’s only disabled pianist able to play the piano to its full potential despite not having use of his legs. His groundbreaking invention, Resonate Adaptive, is a revolutionary device that allows individuals without lower limb function to control the piano's damper pedal using a mouth-operated mechanism. This innovation has restored Riccardo’s ability to perform and has the potential to transform accessibility in music.  

Born in Italy, Riccardo began playing the piano at age five, eventually earning a Master’s Degree in Piano Performance from the prestigious G. Rossini Conservatory. He also earned a degree in Environmental Sciences in Italy before moving to Canada, where he completed a Master’s in Forestry at the University of Alberta. By 12, Riccardo was captivating audiences in chamber ensembles and larger theatres. However, his life took a dramatic turn in 2019 when a spinal cavernoma caused sudden paralysis. Refusing to let his injury define him, Riccardo spent five years developing Resonate, allowing him to once again perform at the highest level. 

In addition to his music, Riccardo is a dedicated entrepreneur. About a year after his injury, he launched Strathcona Microgreens — moving it from his bedroom closet into what is now a thriving enterprise. Combining his passion for urban farming with his commitment to accessibility, Riccardo's work promotes sustainable agriculture and inclusive employment practices.

Finally, Riccardo’s experiences as a cast member in CBC’s Prime Network Show PUSH season 1, PUSH season 2, AMI’s Mind Your Own Business and the Reality TV Show SugarMama have given him a platform to amplify discussions around disability, inclusion, and innovation. Through these varied pursuits, he provides invaluable perspectives on accessibility and reimagining what authentic inclusion should look like. He is passionate about shifting societal attitudes toward disability, fostering open-mindedness, and driving innovation to create equal opportunities for all.  

Whether through innovative endeavors, entrepreneurial ventures, or his own lived experience, Riccardo empowers others to think differently about disability and embrace the possibilities of inclusive design and innovation.