We live in a time when the relationship between youth and adult cultures is sometimes strained by a lack of understanding. Acquiescence on the part of the adult is greeted by contempt on the part of the youth. Arriving at Interlochen, I was happy to see the kids respond so positively to the conductor, Jung Ho Pak, in rehearsal - and he to them.

I was even more impressed when I heard them.

I especially loved what Jung Ho was doing for them - very subtly and very lovingly, he raised the bar of expectations. All the while, he urged the members of the orchestra to explore emotional aspects of the music that many would consider beyond the age of these musicians. His efforts will certainly serve them well as they continue to mature.

One thing Jung Ho said will probably stick with me for the rest of my life. He asked them why they play music and threw away the most popular answers: "I just like music" or "all my friends play music."

"Those are all good answers," he said. "But it is not why we play. The reason we play," he said with one fist clenched for effect and the other hand reaching toward the empty seats of Kresge Auditorium, "is to reach souls." I know more than a handful of adult, working musicians who would have greatly benefited from hearing that.

Interlochen brings young kids and teenagers into a competitive environment and they walk away from the experience with life lessons that will enhance their ability to function in whatever profession they choose.

We need more places like Interlochen in our country.

Branford Marsalis