This week I had the pleasure of being a guest host on the Camp Nation Podcast. We spoke about staff commitment, and I also spoke about the group drumming programs that I provide for camps.

Check out the podcast here.

Path To Rhythm returned to the Riverdale section of the Bronx to work with the campers at Fieldston Outdoors Summer Camp. I worked with a group of 5th & 6th graders. I was pleased with what we are able to accomplish as a group in a short amount of time. I showed the group hand drum technique, and after that we played some basic rhythms. We then made a group composition,  the campers practiced it, and  were able to perform it for the entire Camp at the end of the day. In addition, I was able to accompany some of the staff and music counselors for their daily end of the day performance, which at Fieldston is referred to as “Quad”.
Press play below to hear a recording of the campers playing…
Download audio file (Fieldston2010.mp3)

Congratulations to the campers, Eleanor, Farzana, Emma, Nick P., Nick W., Liam, Edmond, Yeal, and Sam. Thanks to counselors Leah and Emily. Thanks to Cameron for taking these photos. Special thanks to the Director, David Smelin for having me back, and I look forward to returning next summer!

Monday June 21st. Not only is it the Summer Solstice and the start of summer, but most camps will be starting within the next two weeks, which really marks the start of summer! It is an exciting time, and for camp directors it can be a stressful and anxious time. I hear this.  I am saying, relax for a moment, take a deep breath, and know that you are doing all you can to make this a kick-ass summer. You have already  hired  the best staff possible, and your leadership team is more than capable, so trust them to do their jobs. You have already made your enrollment numbers. You have already been in communication with parents and have kept them informed on all they need to know. Your H1N1 emergency plan is in place. And all of the 10,000 other things that may be distracting you will fade away, and come back, and constantly change and be there for you to stress about all summer. So don’t stress. Care, be concerned, but don’t stress. Breathe deep.  Take a look around,  remember with your heart why you wanted to do this job in the first place. You are an inspiration. A role model to staff. A Rock Star / demigod to the campers. The work that you do is important. I wish you good luck. I wish you a successful summer. Remain positive, and allow your self to take a step back from the work and enjoy what you have created.

Best Wishes for Summer of 2010,

Adam Issadore

I recently attended attended the American Camp Association Tri-State Camp Conference held in Atlantic City, NJ. I caught up with with my friend Steven Bernstein to chat about the Conference. In this interview we discuss the benefits of attending the Conference, the importance of networking, and the sharing of ideas among camp professionals.

Check out the interview featured on the Camp Nation Blog, click here.

I recently interviewed Dr. Susan Rubin after her presentation at the ACA  Tri-State Camp Conference in Atlantic City, NJ. In this interview we discuss the importance of making conscious and healthy choices for food programs at camps.

Check out the interview featured on the Camp Nation Blog, click here.