The fabric of American song tradition has been woven from the cultures of the first Americans and by those who arrived as settlers, refugees, idealists, and fortune seekers. Summer Songfest is a series of 5 one-week music enrichment camps with kid-friendly themes in American music. Each camp is designed to bring elementary school children into the world of American sounds through song and instrumental music, dance, visual arts and folktales. Campers will learn about, listen to, and sing a wide range of American song genres related to camp themes (“You Are My Sunshine”, “Purple People Eater” and “Home On The Range” to name just a few). They will also receive instruction on the ukulele, drums, piano and more; enjoy movement and dance sessions; participate in arts and crafts activities related to each camp’s theme; and view clips and short films intended to enhance their experience of the camp’s musical content. Even more fun awaits campers as they make their own instruments, create stage sets for an end-of-camp show, and enjoy healthy, themed snack.

Each morning begins by learning the songs for the week’s theme. They will then get to learn about and play an instrument that has to do with the week’s theme. After a snack the campers will either get a chance to make their very own instrument or get dance instruction based on the theme. The campers end the day with a song circle to prepare them for their performance on Friday: