Learn to play bandura at camp ... (06/07/98)

A Ukrainian Summer: where to go, what to do...

Learn to play bandura at camp ...

by Natalia Bulawka, Larysa Fedoriw,
Anatoli Murha and Mykola Schidowka

LIVONIA, Mich. - Across the lush grounds of London, Ontario, and Emlenton, Pa., one can hear the sounds of the melodic harmony of banduras playing. These sounds indicate camps in progress, where Americans and Canadians, young and old, gather together to live their Ukrainian culture, and discover their roots in traditional Ukrainian music.

By attending one, or both, of the bandura camps offered, consisting of two-week sessions, participants have the opportunity to not only play a new, unique instrument, but also to learn everything they could ever want to know about the ancient Ukrainian musical tradition. Both Kobzarska Sich and Bandura Camp Ukraina are annual summer events that offer this opportunity, with instruction in bandura and vocal music. Kobzarska Sich occurs on the beautiful grounds of All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Church campsite in Emlenton, Pa., while Bandura Camp Ukraina takes place at the picturesque Ukraina Vacation Resort in London, Ontario.

This summer, from July 26 to August 8, Ukraina will be holding its 17th camp since 1980, celebrating over 18 years of service to the Ukrainian community. The 15th camp since 1979 celebrating over 19 years at Kobzarska Sich will take place from August 9 through the 23. As in past years, each will culminate in a grand concert of traditional Ukrainian vocal-instrumental music on the last day of the two-week session, during which students of all ability levels will have the opportunity to show what they have learned.

Videos and CDs of past camp concerts are a great memento of the weeks spent at either camp, and are available after camp to give students a true sense of accomplishment. The CDs and videos are available for purchase and proceeds from the sale of this CD and/or video ensure the continued support of bandura educational programs.

Attendees range in age from 13 to 65 and older at Kobzarska Sich, seven years and older at Ukraina; they have varying degrees of bandura proficiency and vocal training. And, lack of a bandura is not a problem, as rental can be arranged for the duration of camp. Language also is not a barrier. All instruction at the camps is in Ukrainian and English.

The Ukrainian Bandura Chorus provides financial assistance. Individual members of the chorus volunteer their time and talents to both camps. In addition, there are also situations that call for instructors outside the local bandura community.

Highly qualified staff members provide an environment that nurtures an ability to quickly learn the basics of playing this unique instrument. The camps had been the late maestro Hryhoriy Kytasty's never-ending talent pool of new generations of bandurists for the world-famous Ukrainian Bandura Chorus of Detroit. The well-known ensemble draws in fresh talent year after year, and its artistic achievements never seem to ebb. Many current members had their start at the Emlenton and London camps.

In addition to working with outstanding musicians attendees at both bandura camps will have the opportunity to meet Maestro Oleh Mahlay, the artistic and musical director of the Ukrainian Bandura Chorus.

Playing bandura and singing are not the only activities on the agenda, however. Many excellent facilities exist for sporting and recreational activities during the off-hours at both campsites. There are endless possibilities for relaxing and spending time with new friends, such as going canoeing, paddle-boating, swimming, or playing various sports such as volleyball, baseball or basketball. In addition, evening activities include campfires, dances and games.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner, prepared by an excellent kitchen staff, are nourishing and delightfully appetizing. Comfortable cabins and beds, well-tended grounds, up-to-date recreational equipment, and a modern and acoustically balanced concert hall make the two-week stay at either camp a truly memorable experience.

Because they draw participants from all over the United States and Canada, as well as Latin America, Europe and Ukraine, these camps provide opportunities for new friendships that span the globe.

For details, contact: Kobzarska Sich, c/o Anatoli W. Murha, 15356 Ellen Drive, Livonia, MI 48154; telephone (734) 953-0305; e-mail, [email protected]; or Bandura Camp Ukraina, c/o Nick Schidowka, 7067 Beattie St., London, Ontario N6P 1A2; telephone, (519) 652-3043; e-mail, [email protected]

Information is available also at: http://www.execulink.com/~odum/bandura.htm

A Ukrainian Summer

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