Day 3: Music, Memories, and More

Singers hopped out of bed at 7:30 this morning, ready for another day of excitement at Walker Creek Ranch. Breakfast burritos were served with a side of fruit salad, tangerines, and Cheerios.

Voice teacher Tim hosted warm-ups with a focus on movement and body awareness.

Then on to morning musicianship class, where Eric’s class practiced clapping some complex rhythms and sight-reading a two-part melody. Owen’s class did their first-ever dictation in small pieces, gradually filling in rhythm and solfege.

Rehearsals — Eagle campers from CJV found an inchworm and sang it the inchworm song they learned at camp last year! Concert Choir rehearsed the Nutcracker at their evening rehearsal and had a little conducting lesson with Mr. Brown.

Today’s spirit day was “Holiday Day” — campers dressed up as their favorite holidays, with Halloween being a particularly favorite look. Cabin Badger won with their take on an array of holidays, while Cabin Otter was runner-up for their creative “Arbor Day” pitch. Cabins were graded after a filling lunch of turkey tacos.

Camper Jillian turned 11 today! Her birthday was celebrated by all on the patio by singing the special choir birthday song. Rest period was mandatory sleep time — a welcome rest from the intense morning rehearsals and preparation for an afternoon of fun.

During free time this afternoon, campers enjoyed a rousing game of capture the flag and boat races on the lake with counselors Owen, Apryl, and Mia. Today’s spotlight activities at Arts and Crafts were letters home and more friendship bracelets. Some singers in CJV went to the creek and explored.

This evening’s recital had our first camper performances by Josie on the piano and Anjali singing “This Little Rose” by William Roy. Also featured were performances by voice teacher Anne, accompanist Kymry, and assistant camp director Will.

Tonight’s evening activity was the Night in Nature, where campers go out in the evening to enjoy our beautiful natural surroundings as the sun sets and the first few stars peek out from the dark. Concert Choir took turns telling stories; Ainsley’s in particular touched our hearts. They learned the “Old Astronomer” round while silently listening to nature. Singers saw an Owl and Avi caught a cricket! Ensemble hiked up to the water tower on the hill with Eric and their counselors, Apryl, Mia, and Seth. They sat in a circle and shared their intentions and hopes for the year, then engaged in a collaborative storytelling game with Eric. Joyful Voices made crafts and had a quiet night in. We cant wait for more music and memories to be made tomorrow!