Kobzarska Sich Bandura Camp slates course and two workshops (05/07/06)

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

Kobzarska Sich Bandura Camp slates course and two workshops

by Diana Prodan

EMLENTON, Pa. - On the banks of the Allegheny River in the mid-summer heat of August, one can hear the melodic sounds of the bandura echoing in the mountains. Ukrainians from all over America and Canada gather each year to reunite with old friends, make new ones and, of course, play the bandura.

Kobzarska Sich Bandura Camp, sponsored by the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus, is held every summer at All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Church Camp in picturesque Emlenton, Pa. Campers have the opportunity to participate in one of three programs.

The two-week bandura course, for students age 12 and up, starts August 6 and culminates in a concert on August 20. Students spend seven hours a day learning about the history of Ukrainian music and techniques of the bandura. Every level of bandura playing is welcome, including beginners and advanced players, and even Kharkiv-style playing.

The one week Bandura Workshop for students age 9-11 is slated for August 6-13.

The Vocal Workshop for aspiring singers age 12 and up runs from August 13 to 20.

While the camp program concentrates on music, campers have free time for activities such as tennis, basketball and swimming, as well as planned group activities such as dances, campfires and games in the evenings.

Kobzarska Sich is organized by a highly qualified and devoted staff, many of whom have participated as campers in the past. Camp participants have the privilege to learn from some of the most talented and distinguished Ukrainian musicians. This year Kobzarska Sich is excited to have Julian Kytasty returning as its musical director.

The experiences from this camp is what participants cherish most.

"Kobzarska Sich keeps tradition and culture alive by putting the Ukrainian song into the hearts of all participants while forging lifelong friendships along the way," noted one camper.

Another camper wrote: "Participants of all ages become a family. We share love for the bandura and make memories we will always remember. Bandura camp brings the music out of all of us. It is definitely an experience any Ukrainian with a love for music should attend."

This year Kobzarska Sich is offering one full scholarship to a first-time participant for the two-week program. Additionally, partial scholarships are available for returning Kobzarska Sich participants and for new applicants.

For more information call Anatoli Murha, camp administrator, 734-658-6452, or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Visit www.bandura.org/bandura_school.htm to download an application.

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