A Love Story and a Legacy: Ginette DePreist’s “Reach Up” Tells the Tale of James DePreist
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Ginette DePreist’s remarkable journey, chronicled in her new memoir, “Reach Up,” is a testament to resilience, love, and the enduring power of the human spirit. From her early ambition to become a nurse, thwarted by age restrictions, to her unexpected career path in journalism and broadcasting, DePreist’s life is a captivating narrative of adaptation and success.
DePreist’s story takes a pivotal turn in 1975, while working as an assistant producer for the popular Canadian morning show, “Bonjour Chez Vous.” It was there, at a press conference welcoming James DePreist, the new music director of the Quebec Symphony, that their lives intertwined. She describes him as a “tall (over 6’4”),bearded Black man” whose “overwhelming” presence captivated everyone in attendance,especially her.
Overcoming Obstacles: A Life in Music
“Reach Up” isn’t just a love story; it’s a compelling account of James DePreist’s unusual career and the significant hurdles he overcame.The book details his battles with polio,the pervasive racism he faced in the classical music world,and the relentless pursuit of his artistic vision. DePreist’s unique perspective,shaped by his jazz background,Wharton education,and family connection to the legendary Marian anderson,provides invaluable insight into the challenges faced by Black artists in the united States and beyond.
DePreist’s life, as depicted by Ginette, was a whirlwind of triumphs and setbacks, marked by unwavering love and mutual admiration. His career as a conductor and music director, culminating in his tenure with the Oregon Symphony, brought him international acclaim. His death from a heart attack in 2012 left an irreplaceable void, but his legacy continues to inspire.
“Reach up” is both deeply personal and profoundly insightful.As the author notes, “When I next attend a symphony, I will wonder how many competitions the conductor had entered and how long before recognition was received. I will watch the conductor’s movements and how the musicians look at the conductor.” This intimate perspective offers a fresh lens through which to experience the world of classical music.
DePreist’s story serves as a powerful call for greater inclusivity within the American symphony orchestras. His talent and unwavering dedication should inspire a renewed commitment to fostering diversity and ensuring that opportunities are available to all musicians, regardless of race or gender.
For more book recommendations, visit Sunny Solomon’s website at bookinwithsunny.com.
Sunny Solomon, a Reno, nevada resident with a Master’s degree in English and Creative Writing from San Francisco State university, has carved a unique path in the literary world. From managing bookstores in Clayton,California,to publishing her own poetry and reviewing books for The Clayton Pioneer,Solomon’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of community and the passion for literature.
Solomon’s experience managing Bonanza Books and Clayton Books provided invaluable insight into the heart of the literary community. ”The happy manager of Bonanza Books, Clayton, CA and Clayton Books, Clayton, CA,” she recalls, highlighting the joy and connection fostered within those spaces. This experience directly influenced her current work,particularly her dedication to a thriving book club that continues to flourish even after the closure of the bookstore where it began. This enduring book club speaks volumes about the power of shared literary experiences and the importance of community in a digital age.
Beyond her bookstore management, Solomon’s creative endeavors have led to publications in various literary journals, a chapbook titled In the Company of Hope, and a contribution to the collection six Poets Sixty-six Poems. Her work as a book reviewer for The Clayton Pioneer further demonstrates her commitment to fostering a vibrant literary landscape.
Solomon’s story resonates with many Americans who value community and the enriching power of literature. her dedication to her book club mirrors the growing trend of community-based literary gatherings across the United States, highlighting the enduring appeal of shared reading experiences. Her success as a writer and community leader serves as an inspiration to aspiring authors and book lovers alike.
Currently residing near the Truckee River in Reno,Solomon continues to inspire and connect with readers through her writing and her active participation in the literary community. Her journey underscores the importance of perseverance, community engagement, and the enduring power of storytelling in shaping our lives.
Reaching for Harmony: A Conversation on Love, Legacy, and Classical Music
Ginette DePreist’s new memoir, “Reach Up,” chronicles not only her love story with her late husband, renowned conductor James DePreist, but also sheds light on his remarkable journey navigating teh world of classical music as a Black artist. World Today News Senior Editor Sarah Wilson sits down with Dr. Carol Moore, a renowned musicologist and author specializing in 20th-century Black composers , to discuss the book’s impact and the enduring legacy of James DePreist.
Sarah wilson: Dr.Moore, thank you for joining us today. “Reach Up” offers such a personal and insightful look at James DePreist’s life. what resonated most with you as both a musicologist and a reader?
Dr. carol Moore: Well, Sarah, what struck me most profoundly was the book’s honesty.Ginette DePreist doesn’t shy away from discussing the challenges James faced as a black conductor in a predominantly white field. She highlights the racism he encountered, the battles he fought to be recognized for his talent, and the resilience he displayed throughout his career.
sarah Wilson: The book also highlights James’s unique approach to music, his love for jazz, and his Wharton School education. How did these influences contribute to his distinct style as a conductor?
Dr. Carol Moore: Absolutely. James DePreist was a true visionary. His background in jazz, which he studied extensively even after his classical training, gave him a deep understanding of rhythm and improvisation. It informed his conducting style, making it vibrant and full of life. His wharton education gave him a keen understanding of business and organization, which helped him navigate the often-complex world of orchestra management.
Sarah Wilson: Ginette DePreist writes about James facing both overt and systemic racism throughout his career. How does “Reach Up” contribute to our understanding of the barriers faced by Black artists in classical music, not just in james’s era but even today?
Dr. Carol Moore: “Reach Up” is a powerful testament to the prejudice that Black artists have faced, and continue to face, in the classical world. It reminds us that while progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to create a more equitable and inclusive surroundings for all musicians, regardless of their race or background.
Sarah Wilson: The book also beautifully portrays the couple’s love and support for each other. How did Ginette DePreist’s viewpoint as his wife enrich our understanding of James’s life and work?
Dr. Carol Moore: Ginette provides a deeply personal insight into James’s character, his passions, and his struggles. She captures not only his brilliance as a conductor, but also his warmth, his humor, and his unwavering dedication to music.
Sarah Wilson: What do you hope readers will take away from “Reach Up”?
Dr. CarolMoore: I hope readers will gain a deeper appreciation for James DePreist’s unusual talent and his lasting impact on the world of classical music. I also hope it will spark a conversation about the importance of diversity and inclusion in the arts, and inspire future generations of musicians from all backgrounds to pursue their dreams.
