To the editor:

Oh, wow! Yet again, the inhabitants of Lawrence have been treated to the amazing talents and work ethic of our young folks. Composer and conductor Eric Whitacre spent two days working with the bands and choirs of Lawrence and Free State High Schools, as well as the University of Kansas Chamber Choir. The workshop culminated with a concert by the members of these groups Saturday night at the Lied Center. The large and appreciative audience gave them a well-deserved standing ovation.

Mr. Whitacre, along with his friend and collaborator, local poet Anthony Silvestri, chose music that ranged from the delicate choral whisper of angels singing “softly to the newborn baby” to the loud, exuberant rendition of “Ghost Train” by the combined bands.

While we, the audience, enjoyed the performance immensely, the discipline, excitement and joy exhibited by the students at working with Mr. Whitacre was even more impressive.

Kudos go to all the music teachers in our school system as well as to the administration that allowed Mr. Whitacre to provide such an amazing experience to our high school musicians.

Lynne Bodle,

Lawrence