A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
By Crystal Lee
Photo Credit: Moim Photography
In September, as the leaves begin to fade and a gentle breeze whispers through the air, a compelling desire for classical music arises. Today, Mom & I welcomes two distinguished gentlemen who affirm that music is the "nourishment of love and soul." Dr. Woo Myung Choi, a physician of over 30 years, now serves as the artistic director and conductor of the Bergen Symphony Orchestra. President Jong Boo Lim, who has dedicated a similar span of time as a lawyer, stands alongside him in this musical journey. Their silver hair, dignified presence, and warm smiles reflect their enthusiastic and beautiful lives, rivaling those of the young in energy and spirit. Through music, they lead lives enriched with passion and grace.
Mom & I
It's an honor to welcome such exceptional individuals. Many pursue music as a hobby, but it's rare to find professionals like you who engage in music so actively. Dr. Woo Myung Choi, having retired as a specialist in radiation oncology, please introduce yourself to our Mom & I readers.
Woo Myung Choi
Music has been my first and last love. Since my early teens, I've had a passionate affair with it. Although I couldn't major in music due to family opposition, my love for it grew upon entering Kyungpook National University. While studying pre-med, I began accompanying the university choir on the piano and later established a 40-member symphony orchestra. My passion for music led me to neglect my studies, resulting in repeated failures. Although I faced rebuke from family and ridicule from friends, I couldn't abandon music. It was a painful period in which my love for music was reaffirmed.
Mom & I
President Jong Boo Lim, did you also share a love for music like Dr. Choi? Please introduce yourself.
Jong Boo Lim
Who doesn't love music? (Laughs) I was surrounded by music in my family, which naturally provided me with many opportunities to engage with it. After graduating from Gyeonggi High School and Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, I retired as a navy officer in 1978 and flew to the United States the very next day, having prepared thoroughly. Upon arrival, I held admission offers from both English and law departments, pursued English literature at Yale, and studied law at Boston Law School. I practiced law in New York and New Jersey from 1983, worked in investment management, and upon retirement, have had the opportunity to support musical activities, contributing to the community's development, for which I am grateful.
Mom & I
Both of you are individuals brimming with energy, achieving much beyond a single pursuit. How did you come to conduct the orchestra after moving to the United States, Dr. Choi?
Woo Myung Choi
Even after arriving in the U.S., my affection for music did not wane. I pursued conducting lessons privately and, at the encouragement of my professor, decided to attend an American music school in my 50s. I entered New York's Skidmore College in 1987, studied for four years, and then spent another four years undergoing rigorous training at the Pierre Monteux School for Conductors in Maine.
Mom & I
Embarking on such a transformation in your 50s takes extraordinary courage. What was your school life like?
Woo Myung Choi
After about three years, I grasped the essence. The professors recognized my passion for music, stripped me of my ego through a grueling audition process, and began my education anew. Despite frequent reprimands, a sense of challenge emerged, intensifying my desire to engage further with music.
Mom & I
President Lim, alongside your musical endeavors, what other paths have you traversed?
Jong Boo Lim
My brother composes, and a cousin was the founding principal of the Korea National University of Arts. I had always been in a musical environment but never deeply immersed in it. However, a latent passion was ignited upon meeting Dr. Choi, whose influence led me to rediscover my love for music and join the Bergen Symphony Orchestra.
Mom & I
What can you tell us about the Bergen Symphony Orchestra?
Jong Boo Lim
The Bergen Symphony Orchestra is a multi-ethnic ensemble. Its members and audience transcended ethnicity, with Koreans taking a leading role in fostering cultural integration within the community. It provides a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent and offers opportunities for Korean musicians to build their careers.
Mom & I
What insights can both of you share about music’s role in life, especially for our readers?
Jong Boo Lim
Isn't the goal of art to move people's hearts? As Shakespeare said, "Music is the food of love."
Woo Myung Choi
I'd extend that to say, "Music is the food of love and soul." Personal musical experiences evolve into idealistic and abstract elements that continuously draw individuals back to music.
Mom & I
As artistic director, conductor, and president of the Bergen Symphony Orchestra, what is your message for young readers and fellow immigrants?
Jong Boo Lim
Engage in local orchestra performances with your children. As a lawyer, I have seen success and failure, which is often more common. Despite setbacks, one must rise again, and music can make life's journey more fulfilling.
Woo Myung Choi
Having led the Greater Newburgh Symphony Orchestra (GNSO) in upstate New York for 20 years, it was fulfilling. I was invited to speak at a graduation ceremony, which was a proud moment for my family and me. Pursuing what you genuinely love sustains you through life's challenges.
Mom & I
Thank you, Dr. Choi and President Lim, for sharing your invaluable journeys. We hope our readers are inspired to join this enriching world of music.
For more information about the Bergen Symphony Orchestra, visit Bergen Symphony Orchestra.
