Music Week 2011 – Recap

This year once again, music week was a huge success, lead by the loving and professional guidance of Basil Kozak, long time choir director for St. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church in South River, NJ.

Basil was instrumental in weaving the music theme in every aspect of camp life. During services in the Chapel, he directed the campers and staff choir,  introduced new versions of common chants, such as “Lord, have Mercy”, some troparions,kontakions, and daily hymns.

During music sessions, the campers practiced  singing some of the sacred orthodox music, but also learned about the beauty of music all around us. Through fun and  age appropriate activities, the campers were actively engaged in identifying various genres, use of music in everyday life, how our bodies perceive and react to music, and much more. The children enjoyed singing popular songs in harmony , submerging all of their senses in creating music by clapping, tapping, jumping, etc.

The campfire night was made special by Basil’s guitar joining children’s voices in singing campfire songs.

Diligently, with patience and understanding, Basil Kozak worked with each and every camper to prepare for  the highlight of music week: talent night. Everyone was delighted to share singing, dancing and performing talents. There was a lot of laughter, noise and applause. St. Andrew’s camp is brimming with artistic talents!

Thank you, Basil Kozak, for your wonderful and selfless teaching, assistance and cooperation!

This year, we also had special performances throughout the camping season. Through the efforts of program director Phillip Halliwell, camp enjoyed learning christian camp songs, and was visited by some great performers. Thank you, St. Tikhon seminarian Jeff, for coming twice to share your upbeat and loving music with us! Thank you, Olivia and Desio, for an unforgettable performance. Everyone was mesmerized by God’s love shining through the sounds of your harp and singing.

Music is all around us! The music shared during camp had a special feel, as it created a deep bond between all participants, sealing it with the Grace of the Lord!

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