Philanthropy.com: “Within two years of DePreist's appointment, the Oregon Symphony was elevated to 'major' orchestra status.”

[The James DePreist Bust by Rip Caswell is on display at Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, Portland, Oregon]

On February 24, 2011 The Chronicle of Philanthropy published a job announcement for Senior Vice President for Development. The announcement includes an overview of the history of the Oregon Symphony, including the period in which Maestro James DePreist was Music Director and Conductor, and enhanced the orchestra's standing:

The Chronicle of Philanthropy

Senior Vice President for Development

Organization: Oregon Symphony

Posted: February 24, 2011

“A dramatic era in the history of the Oregon Symphony commenced in 1980, with the appointment of James DePreist as Music Director and Conductor. Within two years of DePreist's appointment, the Oregon Symphony was elevated to 'major' orchestra status. In September 1984, DePreist oversaw the Symphony's move from Portland Civic Auditorium to its current home, the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall within the Portland Center for the Performing Arts. The move allowed the orchestra to rehearse on the same stage as it performs, and, together with DePreist's leadership, resulted in a new level of concert activity, even greater service in the areas of education, community programs, and 15 recordings.” [AfriClassical.com profiles James DePreist (b. 1936), who also has his own website, http://www.JamesDePreist.com.]