“Your approach is one I wish more conductors had; one that it isn’t just about the music, but also how one applies the skills that are learned in music to studies and, ultimately, to life. 

I learned valuable lessons about persistence, observation, and communication, which I fully attribute to your wonderful, gentle but determined, positive spirit that comes through in your directing and music.”   Original Letter
“There, we visited Anne Frank’s House.  I thought I heard her cries as the soldiers broke into the house and took her and her family. I was so mad at the people who killed.  As I was playing the concert (with my tour group there), I thought of all those people you told us about when we played the Shostakovitch (Quartet #8 arr. for string orchestra) who lost their lives because of nothing.  And I played for them, just like you said.

I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for this unforgettable experience.  I am so inspired because of you that I look at music as another world."   Original Letter 
“No wonder people raved about you when I sought advice concerning conductors.  Thank you for bringing the “master’s hand” to this group of young people.  My students are still talking about their experience (KS All-State Orchestra: Mahler Symphony No.1) and colleagues say the same about their kids.  I can’t remember getting so fired up at a Convention; I learned so much watching you work.  Know that you will not be forgotten by the people whose lives you touched.”  Original Letter
“From the very first moment of his contact with the orchestra, David established a truly wonderful and unique communication with our young musicians.  His style was enthusiastic and delightful.

He differs from most conductors in that he has a very exact understanding of both pedagogical and performance goals.  He showed a profound knowledge of the works he conducted (Tchaikovsky Romeo and Juliet; Mahler Symphony #5) and demonstrated the highest artistry and a wonderful sense of humor.  At the same time, he is highly demanding and persisted until he achieved the results he wanted.”  
            Original Letter:  English  Russian
“David is one of the most gifted musicians I have ever encountered and even more  important, he has a communicative and personal qualities to channel his musicality to others.  He has greatly elevated the quality of our string ensemble...

Working successfully with both exceptional and more moderately talented players, he has developed their listening skills and sensitivity to make music on a high level. This he accomplishes with great creativity, vivid images, lively humor, and physical expressiveness. He is also a very humane, patient and perceptive person, who really cares about the individuals he works with. The young people know that and respond to him in kind."   Original Letter