Back from camp

I just returned from a stay at Camp Ballibay, a performing arts camp for children.  If you go to their web site you can read all about what an amazing place Ballibay is. I can now say first hand, that it truly is an amazing place.

Jump in…

Ballibay is a place where people get to shine and offer all of their unique talents and skills. I jumped right in, and from my experience, this is the best way to adapt to camp life. On the first full day, the campers have an orientation where they get to experience each and every activity that Ballibay has to offer. I met with all of the campers in groups as they passed through the tent where I had a drum circle set up. This was a great opportunity as I facilitated over ten drum circles on the first day. From there, campers were able to sign up for the activities that they wanted to participate in over the next two weeks.

Rock on!

By the second day, the Rock Intensive was in full swing and we broke up the campers into bands. I led two bands and coached them in preparation for their performance on the last night of the session. I spent every morning working with these bands, and the process was rewarding for me as I was able to witness individual campers let go of their egos and work together as a group. (look for a video of the “Band Night” performance coming soon).

Drum set…

I also had the opportunity to teach many campers who had never played a drum set before. Again, a great time for me, as I was able to introduce the drum set to many young and talented kids who may continue to pursue playing the drum set. For the more experienced and advanced students I was able to offer individual specialized lessons that addressed a specific area that they wanted to work on in their playing. And I also presented several drum set master classes for the advanced students, the topics covered included; funk grooves, drum and bass beats, and playing in odd time signatures. The odd time signature presentation also featured special guest, camp owner and director John Jannone (thanks John!).

Drum Circles, drum circles, drum circles…

Many evenings after dinner were spent drumming with a group of campers on the porch, playing, laughing, and watching the sun set. What a gift it is for me to be able to share rhythm in this way.

All in all,

I enjoyed meeting new people and had some great conversations at meals with video blogger and film maker Bethany Jacobson. I was constantly picking Dr. Sue Rubin’s brain for healthy eating advice, (thanks Sue!). I had some enlightening moments with fellow musician and teacher, John Henry Sheridan, as we shared our philosophies and perspectives on life over many cups of coffee. And off course I got in a little fishing down at the camp pond and managed to catch a few nice ones!