Maurice Peress Boeken

Maurice Peress's memoir offers a unique glimpse into his diverse musical journey, shaped by his Baghdadian and Polish heritage. Growing up in New York, he transitioned from Arabic and Yiddish songs to becoming a prominent trumpeter and conductor. His experiences include serving in a newly-integrated band during the Korean conflict and working alongside legends like Leonard Bernstein and Duke Ellington. Peress recounts his collaborations with renowned musicians and his conducting roles across various cities, showcasing a rich tapestry of cultural and musical influences.

Prominent symphony conductor Maurice Peress describes his career conducting the premiers of such works as Leonard Bernstein's 'Mass' and Duke Ellington's 'Queenie Pie'. He traces the great impact of African American music on American music, beginning with the work of Antonin Dvořák.