Fred Radke

Fred Rake is a masterful trumpeter big band conductor musical clinician educator and recording artist. Fred was formally lead trumpet with the world-famous Harry James Orchestra and for the last 35 years has taken on the role of Harry James directing the Harry James Orchestra. He has been a guest soloist with The Portland and Seattle Symphony Orchestras and in 2021 was a guest soloist with The President's Own Marine Big Band for the 50th anniversary of Wolf Trap.

Born in Oakland California Fred started playing the trumpet at the age of 7 and studied with Weldon Leonardson, Billy Catalano Jr., and Joe Alessi Sr. He was the founder of the Jazz department at North Seattle College where he still teaches. Fred was a lecturer of Jazz Studies at The University of Washington for 9 years as a trumpet instructor and conductor of The UW Jazz Ensemble. Fred is a guest lecturer once a year at Hillsdale College.

Fred Radke has also played lead trumpet for the Glenn Miller Orchestra, led by Ray McKinley, and appeared in the same role with the Dick Jergens Orchestra, Leslie Uggams, The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, Johnny Ray, Phil Harris, The Modernaires, Jack Jones, The Pied Pipers, Earl Grant, The Lennon Sisters, The King Family, Dennis Day, Connie Stevens, Pat Boone, Edie Adams, Anita O'Day, Rich Little, Art Lund, Ella Fitzgerald, Connie Haines and Mel Torme. The Seattle Symphony has also featured him as a guest soloist.