Childhood desire unfulfilled: Pauoa Elementary string ensemble. For some reason unknown and disputed in accuracy, Mom and Pops never let me join the lessons. Seems curious, considering my home was very musical doesn't it? The mystery lives on, but I can now vicariously live out my youthful fantasies.

Fast forward some 30 years and I am now a board member of Hawaii Youth Symphony. My fire burns even stronger, given the challenges that now face music and the arts.

HYS provides a wonderful setting and environment for aspiring young musicians to display their talents alongside the best in Hawaii.

Each year, HYS produces both free appearances for the community and benefit concerts to assist with the subsidy of its programs. On Nov. 15, we will be hosting "Na Mele," our annual gala benefit concert featuring Uncle Willie K. Last year, Uncle Willie shed his local boy image by wowing the crowd with his opera debut. We are fortunate to have him return for an encore performance as he is joined by Lehua Kalima Heine (of Nä Leo) and Pauline Wilson.

For more information, log on to www.hiyouthsymphony.org or call 941-9706 and see 95 reasons why I feel I am living my childhood dream.