Philadelphia Orchestra Members Visit Area Schools

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- In an effort to shape young minds, two members of the Philadelphia Orchestra are visiting grade schools in Philadelphia and Camden, to introduce them to classical music.

It's part of the orchestra's "school partnership" program.

On Monday, second through fourth graders at the Gesu School in North Philadelphia appeared mesmerized as Philadelphia Orchestra violinist David Kim explained how music entered his life.

"When I was still in my mommy's tummy, when my mom was pregnant with me," he told the students, "she decided that I'm going to train that son to become a world class violinist."

Kim, the concertmaster of the orchestra, told the students he was practicing five hours a day when he was their age.

Following his talk, he played -- along with fellow orchestra member Davyd Booth at the piano.

The kids were also excited because they'll be attending a Kim recital next Monday at the Kimmel Center's Perelman Theatre.

"I liked when he played the scary part," one said, referring to a Ned Rorem piece.

"I would like to play the violin when I grow up," claimed another.

"He played pretty well. But I play the drums, which is my favorite instrument," said a third.

Reported by Steve Tawa, KYW Newsradio 1060.