Thrilled to welcome Ginette DePreist for a celebration of her memoir, Reach Up: My Beautiful Journey with James DePreist. She will be in conversation with Isaac Thompson.

About Reach Up

“James DePreist, who began as a jazz player, arranger and composer, overcame racial prejudice and a profound disability on his way to becoming an internationally acclaimed orchestra conductor. For the last thirty-five years of his life, Ginette DePreist was not just his wife, but a professional partner and bulwark. Her warm, wise, and engaging memoir, rich with behind-the-scenes observations of the classical music scene, is a dual portrait of a protean musician and an inspiring marriage.” - ANTHONY TOMMASINI Former Chief Classical Critic, The New York Times.

“With every page, we see the love of music, life, poetry, thought, family, and faith unveil humanity. It is boundless—stronger than differences, race, countries, and abilities… This is as much a story about the fine art of conducting as it is about the blending of two souls that discover what it is to become one.” Rita Coburn, Writer, Director, Producer, CEO, RCW Media Productions Inc.

Ginette DePreist’s life with James DePreist was a wonderful one. One filled with excitement, rewards and love with a partner she would have never dreamed of. His life, however, was so much more. His journey took him through so many twists and turns and almost insurmountable challenges that he managed to overcome through his entire life and career as the most internationally acclaimed African American symphony conductor of his time. His tenacity and perseverance taught him to never give up and always reach up.

About Ginette DePreist

Originally from Quebec City, Ginette was married to James DePreist for more than thirty years, accompanying him throughout his remarkable career. She now resides in Portland, Oregon.

About Isaac Thompson

Isaac Thompson is the President & CEO of the Oregon Symphony and a prolific violinist. He studied music at the University of Cincinnati and received his Master of Music from The University of Texas at Austin.