Kobzarska Sich in Emlenton: where campers of all ages learn bandura (05/01/05)

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

Kobzarska Sich in Emlenton: where campers of all ages learn bandura

by Anatoli W. Murha

EMLENTON, Pa. - For over 25 years, the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus has sponsored Kobzarska Sich Bandura Camp at All Saints Camp in Emlenton, Pa. This two-week course in bandura and vocal music has been frequented through the years by participants and staff from all over the world. Featured instructors have included Hryhory Kytasty, Oleh Mahlay, Julian Kytasty, Kvitka Kondracki and Mariana Sadovska.

This year's program begins August 7 and ends August 21, with Julian Kytasty returning as music director.

The two-week bandura and vocal curriculum will be supplemented by a one-week beginners' course (August 7-14) for those age 10 to 11. During the second week, a vocal workshop (August 13-21) will be offered for male and female ensembles. This course concentrates solely on vocal music, but also gives participants the opportunity to perform with the large instrumental ensemble as well. Particpants age 12 and older are welcome.

Ruslana Makarenko of Yonkers, N.Y., noted: "Kobzarska Sich teaches us to embrace our culture and traditions. The camp teaches bandura in a way that is both fun and educational."

Daily instruction includes the technique of playing bandura, bandura history, solo and ensemble playing and singing, music lectures and elementary music theory (as needed). There will be free time for sports, swimming, relaxation, practicing or even canoeing down the Allegheny River. The two-week course will culminate with a concert on Sunday, August 21 at 2 p.m.

Instruction is in both Ukrainian and English. And, if you don't own a bandura, no problem, you can rent one. The course is geared to various levels of players, from beginners to intermediate and advanced.

Last year's camp attracted over 70 people from all over North America, including Winnipeg, Yonkers, New York City, Detroit, Chicago, Cleveland, Toronto, Philadelphia and Edmonton.

For information readers may call Anatoli Murha, camp administrator, at (734) 953-0305 or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Visit www.bandura.org/bandura_school.htm to download an application.

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