Summer is typically a time when children are excited to be away from the classroom but St. Mark's Lutheran Church of Pennsburg has changed that idea by providing summertime excitement through their Music Camp.

            Now in its sixth year, St. Mark's lends an opportunity to enhance musical abilities, as well as arts and crafts, through their week long program.

            From Mon., June 19 to Fri., June 23; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. children with a love for music participated in instruction for singing in a choir; a drum circle; sacred or folk dance; guitar; hand bells; Orff instruments such as the xylophone; and strings, woodwind, or percussion instruments as well as learning sign language and crafts such as banner making. The classes range from beginner to advanced and welcome elementary aged students up to ninth grade.

            Rev. Charles Romanowski, Pastor at St. Mark's explained, "We open the classes each summer to the public with many of the participants being members of the church although they don't have to be. We really started the program for two reasons. One reason being to use the opportunity to praise God through song, dance, and music. And the second reason was we realized that sadly many districts have their arts programs cut during budget times. We wanted to give the youth in the valley the opportunity to play an instrument and be tutored on how to play it while creating lasting friendships."

            Romanowski added, this year the program had 21 participants, with many receiving scholarships to the program after approval from the church's steering committee.

            Typically the cost of the camp is $100 for the 25 hours of instruction with midmorning snacks provided. A bag lunch is required for each student although, Romanowski said, on Thursday students were treated to pizza from Tosco's Restaurant.

            He attributes the success thus far to the "great staff that is very talented and versatile" and to the cooperation between other churches in the valley through their use of instruments and educators.

            Dr. Mark Thomas, supervisor of music for the Upper Perkiomen School District, has been a part of the program for 5 years directing the chorus and instrumental ensemble as well as teaching lessons in voice, trumpet, violin, guitar, trombone, and clarinet.

            "What has been very rewarding is to watch the high school, middle school, and elementary school aged children all working and learning together to create something wonderful," said Thomas.

            The camp day begins with a brief time of worship and required time in the chorus as well as the drum circle. After that, students are rotated through their choice of 5 electives averaging at 30 minutes per session. Students can decide on what type of instrument instruction they prefer, although the instrumental ensemble which includes string instruments, woodwind, percussion, and brass requires one year of prior experience.

            Romanowski said, the flow of the day allows for some down time during the midmorning snack and lunch but otherwise will keep the interest of students by rotating to different rooms and classes.

            Heather Schmitt, first time instructor for banner making and sign language, remarked on her experience, "The staff is true professionals. They are experts in the classes they teach so the children get a true enrichment program. But they also acknowledge that this is summer vacation and they make it fun for the children. I love hearing the kids laugh while they are learning. There is true collaboration of staff to meet the children's needs."

            Schmitt's daughter was enrolled in the camp for the first time this year. Nine-year-old Andrea, said, "I have participated for 1 year. I think music camp has helped me become better at music. Also, everyone there is so nice!"

            Bringing the camp to a close on Fri., June 23 allowed all participants to perform what they've learned throughout the week.

            According to Romanowski, 80 audience members, which included family and friends of the students, came out to hear and see the performance. Banners that were created during the camp were displayed at the start of the evening's events and at the conclusion a meal was provided by the church.

            Schmitt noted, "The best part is the performance on Friday night.  It is amazing to see the results of that collaboration.  It is amazing to see what they can accomplish in a week's time.  It is a true reflection of the week and the talent of these young musicians.  They really shine and there is such a sense of pride that night."

            For more information on the Summer Music Camp program visit the church website at www.StMarksPennsburg.com. The camp is planned to return next year and typically runs during the third week of June.