Richie DeFreitas, widely known as “Richie Dee” in musical circles, began playing in big bands when he was 16 years old.  He is a charter member of the “Chris Powers” Orchestra where he was a featured Tenor Sax and Clarinet soloist.  He also played for “Dick Madison” and Nicky Deems in the ‘60’s.  Richie is currently reviving his “Swing Xpress” Octet featuring a west coast jazz sound.  He is a journeyman Tenor man with lots of section and solo expertise and is proud to be in the GBSO.  “Good Musical Company to keep!”