Richard F. Lee is a native of Houston, Texas. He received his Bachelor's degree from Texas Southern University in music education. He was a member of the first "Ocean of Soul" under Benjamin J. Butler. While still a student at Texas Southern, he began his professional playing career in performances with Nancy Wilson. He completed his Master's degree at Colorado State University where he was a member of the National Intercollegiate Band. He has also pursued Doctoral studies at Howard University and the University of Maryland.

This skilled trumpeter's performance credits include work with many ensembles and cover a wide range of musical styles. The Prince George Philharmonic Orchestra, John F. Kennedy Opera House Orchestra, and Sonny Franklin Big Band are among the many ensembles to benefit from Lee's musical expertise. In addition, Richard Lee has performed with notable entertainers such as Redd Foxx and the O'Jays.

Lee's teaching credits are no less impressive. He began his university teaching experience at Shaw University in North Carolina, followed by a 15 year tenure at Howard University, where he held his first "Director of Bands" position. He then returned home to Houston (and to his alma mater as well), to take the helm of the "Ocean of Soul" at Texas Southern University; where he continues to teach and conduct marching band, wind ensemble, and trumpet ensembles.
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