Born in Rochester, New York on September 23 (also John Coltrane's birthday) Richard Vitale played with Miles Davis' drummer, Philly Joe Jones at the early age of sixteen. After locating to New York City, Richard has performed with such jazz luminaries as Barry Harris, Sal Nistico and Joe Morello (long-time drummer with the Dave Brubeck Quartet). His experience with big bands has been no less impressive, performing as jazz soloist with none other than Ol’ Blue Eyes himself, Frank Sinatra, and in the jazz chairs of the Buddy Rich Big Band, the Count Basie Orchestra, the Duke Ellington orchestra as well as the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Big Band -- now the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra.
One of his favorite points in his career was the opportunity to play with the Frank Sinatra Orchestra. Playing harmon mute behind Frank in the “Sweets Edison” chair was a thill of a lifetime. Currently, Richie works with Frank Sinatra Junior and particapated in the recording of “As I Remember It,” Frank Jr.’s touching tribute to the “Man and his Music.” Richie can also be heard on Lee Greene’s new CD N.Y.Calling playing trumpet and fluegelhorn.
Richard’s first recording as a leader on the TCB label titled Dreamsville, featuring alto master Gary Bartz, was released to critical acclaim, it’s Jazz Journal reviewer hailing it as "a veritable treat from start to finish."
He has led his quintet on tours of Japan and Korea, performs in San Francisco and LA and frequently appears in clubs thoughout the New York Metropolitan area. His latest CD for TCB records, was recorded Live at Smalls in the heart of New York City. Jazz writer Peter Collins remarks, "The whole performance can be called spirited -- a word that would be apt as well to describe Richard Vitale, his remarkable musical talents, and this splendid disk."
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