Seattle Times: James DePreist is 'majestic and contemplative, like a king buddha at the podium'

[James DePreist]

Concert review A felicitous homecoming for Joshua Roman
Cellist Joshua Roman is right at home in Benaroya Hall, where he joins Seattle Symphony and conductor James DePreist for a program that includes the world premiere of David Stock's Cello Concerto.
By John Sutherland
Special to The Seattle Times
Concert Review
“Roman wasn't the only celebrated guest this week. The concert also saw the return of former Oregon Symphony conductor James DePreist. DePreist began with Smetana's 'Bartered Bride' Overture, one of those workouts where the strings are playing a million notes a minute, right out of the gate. But respect the conductor who treats these old chestnuts like real music, as DePreist does. He kept the ensemble tight and restrained, so the forte sections burst with jubilation. DePreist has a presence that is at once majestic and contemplative, like a king buddha at the podium. The orchestra felt it, and responded.” [Full Post] [James DePreist is profiled at AfriClassical.com]