Sunday, March 3, 2013

The Times: James DePreist, 'Indomitable conductor who fought racial prejudice and health problems to become one of America's most eminent orchestra leaders'

DePreist: he charmed philanthropists throughout Portland into supporting the provision of a new concert hall
Anthony Barboza/Getty Images




Indomitable conductor who fought racial prejudice and health problems to become one of America’s most eminent orchestra leaders

Overcoming serial health problems and racial barriers, James DePreist was one of the first major African-American conductors. But he preferred to be judged for his musical achievements, transforming the Oregon Symphony from a fair, part-time, regional orchestra into a nationally recognised ensemble

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