Today, I had the privilege of performing and speaking to the Young Wonders Summer Camp participants at the YWCA in Carlisle, PA. Young Wonders is a summer day camp for elementary aged children in the Carlisle area, and there were about 30 children participating today.
For more information, visit – http://www.ywcacarlisle.org/index.php/youth/young-wonders-day-camp
This week’s theme was “Creatures of All Kinds,” so I gathered pieces about animals and settings in nature. I used the Grieg Butterfly, selections from Saint-Saens’ Carnival of the Animals, and some pieces by Chopin and Ravel for more imagery. I talked about the different composers, and we shared our ideas of what each piece could represent. There are no wrong answers, and I was very impressed by the creativity of the group. I also talked about the piano and its components – the hammers, dampers, strings, pedals, etc. It was so refreshing to see such enthusiasm and eagerness to learn from the kids.
In addition, I was excited to find out that everyone had some experience playing instruments, and all were willing to contribute and share ideas about the music in general. Music can mean something different for everyone, especially in today’s context of animals and imagery. However, this flexibility and depth make music so fascinating to discuss. I feel that the collaborative environment at the YWCA today was truly enriching for all those involved. We could even have some future star performers and professors of the music industry right here at the YWCA!
