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Ralph's career began during his high school days in Fort Worth, Texas, absorbing musical influences from the likes of Jim Kweskin, Pete Seeger, The Brothers Four, and Sergio Mendez & Brasil '66, and the comedy influences of Stan Freberg and Laurel & Hardy. Ralph was known in the coffeehouses for his impish wit and ease at improvising songs, as well as his guitar, harmonica and vocal skills. From the start his interest included the stage and screen and before he left Texas, he had performed in two productions at the prestigious Casa Mañana Theater in-the-round.

While studying at The University of Southern California Cinema Department, Ralph supported himself in a variety of musical venues. After moving to Portland, Oregon in 1981, he was soon playing in many of the small clubs, pubs, and cafés. Ralph's personality and musical talent, and his adeptness at dealing with other musicians and practical matters, brought him offers to produce shows. In 1987, he organized the first acoustic stage at the massive annual Mayor's Ball. In the late '80's and the early '90's Ralph hosted a weekly performer's showcase at Besaws Restaurant and The Melody Ballroom. For 18 months Ralph had his own “Video Hot Sheet” on KMJK FM in Portland.

The blossoming of Ralph's career includes his visibility as an actor. He has appeared in print and broadcast advertising as well as feature and industrial films.

A gifted songwriter, Ralph is well known for his sensitive voice as well as his guitar and harmonica (echo & chromatic) skills. He thoughtfully renders the ballads, love songs, novelty songs, and the intricate moods of such writers as Jesse Winchester, Tom Waits, Jerry Jeff Walker, Willis Alan Ramsey, and Michael Smith.

In 1992 Ralph released his first CD project: “It's About Time!”. The CD features five of his songs, two covers and several songs by close friends. With its impressive array of top-notch musicians, it is an excellent introduction to Ralph's world.

Currently, Ralph is performing as a solo act in the Portland area and in November of 1998 released his second CD, the self produced, “Seeking The Barber of Seville” on his own label, Arch & Hold Recording Company. This album features five songs written by Ralph as well as his own arrangements of two traditional songs and his interpretations of seven “covers”. He has appeared at far too many venues to list here, including McMenamin's Edgefield and is a staple for Sunday Brunch at the Three Square Grill, both in Portland. Stop in and enjoy his folksy style, but don't just expect folk music. You will hear many popular styles including Rag Time, Jazz Influenced Ballads, a bit of country, Irish folk, TV and movie themes and much, much more.