THE CARPITCHERS

Rick Carpitcher is the group’s manager and pianist. Rick was born-again at the age of eight, and it was then that he began honing his talents behind the piano at his home church where his father pastored. He began working in recording sessions while in high school and would later travel with regional gospel groups, but it was in the fall of 2001 that his professional break finally came. After a small stint with the NEW HINSONS, Rick began touring with the nationally known TONEY BROTHERS QUARTET where he was pianist for many years. During his tenure, Rick shared the stage with notable groups such as ERNIE HAASE & SIGNATURE SOUND, THE DOVE BROTHERS, and GOLD CITY. Rick has performed on the mainstage of the National Quartet Convention, the Gospel Music Television World Premier, and Dollywood just to name a few. In late 2006, Rick & Andrea formed the group known as NATIVE WITNESS and the two were wed in 2007. They would later perform simply as "THE CARPITCHERS."

Andrea Carpitcher began singing at a young age as her father ministered among his Native people. It was during these tender years that she accepted Christ into her heart. Her love for harmony and blend was influenced by her mother and later from groups such as THE NELONS and THE HOPPERS. Over the years, Andrea has performed alongside Gospel music’s finest such as THE CRABB FAMILY, KAREN PECK & NEW RIVER, and MICHAEL ENGLISH. At the 2010 National Quartet Convention in Louisville, Kentucky, Andrea placed 1st out of 52 contestants in the annual talent competition. She was honored to display her soprano voice on the mainstage of the NQC later that week. Andrea released her debut CD titled "He Believes In Me" in June of 2011, and her first single "Peace In The Midst Of The Storm" continues to receive airplay throughout the nation. Both Rick & Andi (as her friends know her) share a unique heritage in that they are both Native American (Seminole Nation & Cherokee). They make their home in Tahlequah, Oklahoma and have three children - Kirsten, Jasmine & Benjamin. Both enjoy working in the worship team at their home church – 29Eleven Church (First Assembly of God Tahlequah).

Jason Kelly was born into a minister’s family. He was saved at an early age and began playing several different instruments alongside his brother and sister. Over the years, Jason’s piano skills and vocal talent has enabled him to arrange music and work in ministry as a worship leader. Jason’s heart for worship along with his soulful lead vocals has made him a fan favorite! His musical talent also brings a greater dimension to the group's repertoire by adding more live instrumentation. He and his wife April make their home in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. They have two young children - Kirsten and Carter.

Elisabet Garcia is the oldest of five girls. Like the rest, her commitment to Christ came at a very young age. For over a decade, she ministered alongside her family in the award winning group known as FAITH, HOPE, AND LOVE. She too has shared the stage with Gospel music’s elite. In addition, she recently released her first solo project titled “Bring Me Back.” Elisabet’s pleasant alto voice and experience in ministry is a great asset to THE CARPITCHERS. She joins the Carpitcher team with a great desire to encourage the believer and see souls saved. Elisabet makes her home in Durant, Oklahoma.