Gary the Great

The tricky thing about writing a profile about Gary Lamprecht is that there’s so much to say.
Lamprecht retires next month as director of San Luis Obispo High School’s award-winning choir program. But his legacy doesn’t end there.
Over the last three decades, he’s taught kids to sing at Laguna Middle School and Morro Bay High School, and coaxed community members toward greatness with the San Luis Obispo Vocal Arts Ensemble.
His passion for music is powerful. His energy is seemingly endless.
So when I asked a handful of friends and students to describe Gary, the outpouring of praise, respect and affection was equally bountiful.

Here are some kind words that didn’t make the print edition:

“It’s kind of hard to describe Mr. L. You can’t just say one thing. ‘Inspiring’ is one thing. ‘Amazing.’ ”
“You can tell he’s really into music, and it rubs off on people.”
— Moani Seely, junior at SLO High

“He’s amazing. He knows what he’s talking about and he cares … It’s just fun to go to choir.”
— Kelly Christopherson, senior at SLO High

“(His) passion is infectious. I can be in an ensemble where everyone is expected to love music, and they do.”
— Carolyn Campell, senior at SLO High

“He has a very personal way with the choir. He shares himself with them. He doesn’t just dictate to them.”
“He just offers them the opportunity to really grow and really blossom.”
— Cricket Handler, assistant choir director at SLO High and Vocal Arts Ensemble

CHECK OUT The Tribune's excellent online slideshow on Gary here.