Day 5. Camp is over.
I’ve never seen so many campers arrive early! The day began with the last Instrument Instruction classes. This was important for the girls, as it was their last opportunity to work out any kinks with their instructors. As a Vocal Instructor, I and the 4 other Instructors did what we could to help the singers relax and trust their voices. Class seemed fun – for us, at least – and there was some super strong singing going on in the hallways!
After the final Instrument Instruction of the week, it was time for lunch! Sista Eyerie was one of our performers and that chick was boss. Her flow was mad sick and she was so positive and groovin’! Seriously – I danced the whole show and hope to catch her again.
After lunch, we had Showcase run-throughs and the bands I was able to hear simply crushed it. After the run-through, the band I’ve been working with had their final Band Practice. They worked hard to figure out their song’s ending and I was super-proud of their progress. We then broke down the equipment, headed out for final assembly and the campers went home. It was fast. It was final. It was the end.
After the campers went home, we Volunteers stayed at the school and broke down the entire camp. When I left the school at 9 pm last night, the gear was being loaded onto a truck for storage and the school – which had been our own private Rock Utopia – had reverted back to being, well, a school.
There were definitely a lot of emotions being felt and expressed throughout the day. Even typing this is stirring tears. But they’re happy tears, so I won’t fight them.
Today is our Showcase at the House of Blues! I can tell you now this day will probably lead to a cry-fest for some Volunteers. Why? Because we care. More than anything, we want to see these young girls tap into their true selves. Without fear. Without self-judgment. No holds barred.
Can’t wait for the Showcase.