Heard has been a part of the live music scene in upstate and western New York since 2007. He began gigging as a bassist in Syracuse rock clubs before moving to Rochester in 2009 where he carved out his place in the local jazz scene on both electric and upright bass. After completing a degree on classical guitar Heard was hired to tour as an electric and upright bassist for a national act. In 2018 he completed a Masters in Jazz Performance on upright bass and continues to perform as a sideman in several groups across New York and Pennsylvania. These groups range from straight ahead jazz and r&b, to blues and hard rock.

In addition to his extensive live performance career Heard has worked as a session bassist in recording studios across the US. He also self produced and recorded an album of his original singer songwriter music. Heard is also the host of The Music Bowl podcast.

As an educator Heard has worked at the collegiate level teaching beginning guitar courses and leading small group jazz combos. While teaching at the college level he co-authored a beginning guitar book. Currently Heard teaches high school general music classes studying bass, guitar, drum set, singing and song writing. He also maintains a private lesson studio.