It is with deep regret that we inform of the passing of Mr. David Shepard, world-renowned film preservationist who has been instrumental in the production of the Annual Redding Silent Film Festival.
The Shasta County Arts Council is currently working on the revitalization of the Festival as is hoping to be able to bring it back in 2018.
Thanks to David Shepard, world-renowned film preservationist, the Festival can boast a real movie theater experience, with films projected off reels, accompanied by the chatter of an old-times movie projector.
Well-known internationally in film circles, Shepard has spent the major part of his career restoring early cinema for DVD and video editions. Recent projects include Abel Gance’s “La Roue” (1922), “Chaplin at Keystone” (1914) and C. B. DeMille’s 1927 production of “Chicago”. The list of other cinema restoration projects completed by Shepard throughout his career is considerable and significant.
Shepard taught cinema for 34 years at the University of Southern California, where he was also director of the Louis B. Mayer Film and Television Study Center; UCLA, where he was honored in 1983 as “the outstanding teacher in performing and integrated arts”; Claremont Men’s College; the University of Iowa; and Pennsylvania State University. He has also co-authored or edited more than a dozen books.
Shepard currently lives in northern rural California with eight dogs and works in a handmade log house of his own design. He is also active in community affairs and continues to work nationally with various archives and laboratories to preserve rare films.
In the words of Mike Mashon, Head, Moving Image Section, Motion Picture Broadcasting and Recorded Sound Division, Library of Congress, “David is a giant in the field of film preservation, one of those rare talents who exemplifies the scholar’s rigorous research, the archivist’s attention to detail, and the fan’s unabashed love and enthusiasm for movies.”
The experience would not be complete without live accompaniment! Redding’s Festival is graced by extraordinary talent of world-class master pianist, Frederick Hodges! Hailed by the press as one of the best ragtime pianists in the world, Frederick Hodges is sought after by today’s foremost orchestras, festivals, conductors, and collaborative musicians.
Renowned as a pianist and singer, Frederick Hodges is recognized by audiences around the world for his mastery of diverse repertoire from Liszt to Gershwin. He has established a reputation as a truly versatile artist equally sought after as soloist, singer, and guest soloist with the California Pops Orchestra, and dance band pianist. He has appeared on national television, radio, and in several Hollywood films. He is also a sought-after silent film accompanist for both live performances and on DVD. He performs regularly at the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum.
“One of my most cherished musical pleasures is accompanying silent films. My drive for complete authenticity when creating silent films scores is motivated by my deep love, appreciation, and commitment to the artistic and musical culture of the silent film era.”
About the Artist: www.frederickhodges.com