From Selena Ching - Executive Director Hawaii Youth Symphony
June 09, 2009Over the past few years, the Hawaii Youth Symphony has had the pleasure of working with Jake on several projects ranging from blockbuster concerts with our most advanced students to open workshops with young people just beginning their exploration into the world of music-making. Each experience with Jake has been memorable and valuable for the students involved. Jake is arguably as good in a classroom as he is on stage. He has a natural way of connecting with his audience, whether they are the highest caliber music aficionados or the youngest minds learning basic rhythm and steady beat. He gauges his audience and adapts well to any environment.
HYS is grateful for the time, the work and the support that Jake has unselfishly given to our programs over the years. He and his staff are
dedicated to creating high-quality music as well as strengthening our communities through music. At HYS, we strongly believe in the power of music to: improve the learning environment leading to greater academic achievement; positively shape young minds to prepare them for the 21st century workforce; and form good citizens who will contribute to our communities. These principals are self-evident to us, but there is an array of research with evidence to support them. Jake and his staff are building beyond these values with their Music is Good Medicine initiative. We applaud their efforts and look forward to the great strides they are sure to make in this arena. Their success will undoubtedly improve and enrich our communities. It is an honor to know Jake--an extraordinary musician and human being--and we wish him and his team great, great success.
Aloha,
Slena Ching