In a career spanning over 30 years of active music in the Pacific Northwest, R. Lee Friese has been conducting, performing, teaching, adjudicating and consulting on performance site designs throughout the Pacific Northwest. Experienced and qualified, R. Lee earned a Master’s Degree from Bowling Green (Ohio) in Conducting Orchestral and Choral Music. R. Lee conducted adult choral groups and orchestras in Whitehouse and Lima Ohio, Fort Worth Texas, Walla Walla and Pendleton before forming and conducting the present music organizations of the Inland Northwest Musicians.

R. Lee believes in creating music with respect and integrity in operations and musical directions of his groups. He shows respect for musicians, music and the composer’s intent. Musicians respond in effective and rigorous preparations that result in finite performances with R. Lee. The Inland Northwest Musicians strive to accomplish the ultimate music-making experience that their music demands. The Inland Northwest Musician’s orchestras and choruses present unified and exciting focus to music under R. Lee’s direction to reach a pinnacle in energy and expression. Audiences respond with praise and enthusiastic support.

R. Lee has conducted major symphonic works from Baroque music to contemporary style as well as major choral works with orchestra. He has conducted local soloists and internationally-known performers. Among the growing list of performers names are: Janos Starker, the American String Quartet, Yarborough and Cowan. He conducted world-premiers by Alan Hovahness and Jesse Burgess. A partial list of soloists include: Hamilton Chavitz, Reginald Untershere, Michael Feves, Julie Feves, Jo Brooks, Lynetta Paul, Samuel Johnson, Kelly Ferris, Bruce Bailey, Shannon Haws and Leonard Richter.

R. Lee Friese has been a consistent, dependable voice of advocacy for music, symphony and the arts. When his baton is raised, R. Lee’s leadership qualities and conducting expertise shine.