It has recently come to our attention that the last surviving Freese Brother and co-founder of the Freese Brothers Big Band, Mr. Courtland Freese, passed away on December, 12, 2021 at the age of 93.
David Tirrell-Wysocki is vice-president of the Freese Brothers Big Band, and he has played in the Band since its formation 40 years ago in 1982. Upon learning of Courtland’s passing, he had these words of praise about his mentor, friend, and co-founder of the band that carries the Freese family name: “Courtland was a warm and kind gentleman with a heart as big as the world. Courtland and his brothers – Jack, George and Bill – founded the Freese Brothers Big Band in 1982, continuing a decades’-old family musical tradition and beginning a new one. The legacy that Courtland and his brothers left has been priceless: for 40 years, a group of musicians have volunteered their time and talent to entertain audiences and raise scholarship funds for the next generation of musicians. In the early years under their personal leadership, then following in their footsteps, the band has performed throughout New Hampshire. We see it as our duty to continue to honor and carry on the brothers’ legacy for years to come.”
Peter Imse is the Band’s secretary/treasurer, and he has also played in the Band along with David Tirrell-Wysocki since its inception 40 years ago. While remembering Courtland and the other Freese Brothers, he added: “Their vision of a volunteer band has provided countless opportunities for musicians to continue to develop their musical skills and to enjoy playing together, and it has resulted in countless hours of musical enjoyment for our audiences over the years.”
The Concord Monitor newspaper recently published an article on the passing of Courtland Freese and the band’s history. It can be found here.
Mr. Freese’s online obituary notice can be found here.
In Memorium
On behalf of the members of The Freese Brothers Big Band, the officers and board members offer their condolences – and thanks – to Courtland Freese’s extended family.
Band Officers:
- President: Louis Brisette
- Vice President: David Tyrell-Wysocki
- Secretary/Treasurer: Peter Imse
- Music Director: Michael Adams
Board of Directors:
- Lisa Noordergraaf
- Jill Carson
- Scott Cavanagh