Paul Douglas Freeman (Finding Aid)

Paul Douglas Freeman

1936 -

Favorite Color: Black, white and everything in between

Favorite Food: Chinese food

Favorite Vacation Spot: Home: Chicago, IL and Victoria, British Columbia

Interview Length: 126 minutes

Interview Date(s): April 24, 2003

Interview Location(s): Chicago, Illinois

Abstract

Paul Freeman shares his family background and describes what it was like growing up in a house with twelve siblings. Freeman discusses his early interest in music, recalling his first experiences playing clarinet. Freeman then explains how he cultivated his talent by taking private lessons and playing with a college symphony while he was still a teenager. He also explains why he was drawn to conducting. Paul Freeman describes the start of his musical career, from his first time conducting an orchestra, to his doctoral work at the Eastman School of Music. Freeman explains why he chose Eastman for his undergraduate study, and discusses his experience studying abroad in Berlin, where he had great success. Freeman gives an example of racism in the admissions process that denied him enrollment at Indiana University. Freeman then describes his time as a doctoral student at Eastman. Paul Freeman discusses his professional life as a conductor, starting with the effects his profession has had on his family life, including his moves to Dallas, Texas and Victoria, British Columbia. Freeman describes his various appointments to conducting posts around the world; he was the first African American to conduct many orchestras. Freeman describes the many instances of segregation and racism in the orchestral music world, and explains how he was able to overcome prejudice. Paul Freeman discusses various topics about orchestral music, particularly about his interpretation of other composers. He lists his many successes, and shares some of the work he has done in conducting the works of many black composers. Freeman also describes how he has integrated other art forms into his interpretations of music. Paul Freeman considers his legacy and reflects on his current successes with the Chicago Sinfonietta and Czech National Symphony Orchestra. Freeman says he is proud of having inspired the diversification of many orchestras around the world. Freeman also describes a series of photographs, depicting his life and family.

44 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)