Anyone with any doubts about the value of “OrchKids,” the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s instrumental music program for inner city students, should listen to what young Asia Palmer, a flute player in her 10th year with the program, had to say to the New York Times recently.
“The program has given me a voice,” Ms. Palmer declared. “I feel like I can be whatever, do whatever – strive.”
Strive and succeed she has. Back in 2013, I had the honor to be at the White House with Ms. Palmer as First Lady Michelle Obama gave her a hug and presented her with OrchKids’ National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award.
I cannot think of any time that I have been prouder of our young people or more hopeful for the future of our community.
A life in rhyme … Jalal Mansur Nuriddin of the Last Poets pictured in September 1984. Photo Credit David Corio/Redferns.
