Tyler Martin, Westmoore High School, Orchestra/Percussion

The percussion concert on Tuesday was nothing short of a blast. Valerie [Naranjo, percussion instructor] led the crowd in powerful singing as they joined in with our performance. From the beautiful to the boisterously loud, the music all reached across continents and culture and presented a portrait of music not often seen. That concert represented a climax in the week, however, and the last few days have been seemingly longer. While I do not look forward to leaving, I would love a little extra sleep. Still, I'll enjoy the last days of the camp.

Cate Lynn, Westmoore High School, Orchestra/Oboe

As the camp prepares for our big finale, all of the students are busy painting, matting photos, dancing, and rehearsing music. This weekend will prove to be the most stressful days of this camp, but will possibly be the most rewarding. I am in love with the idea of finally getting to rest come Sunday, but I'm also saddened by parting good friends and amazing instructors. I absolutely adore the orchestra conductor, Mr. Christian Knapp. He treats us all as professionals and colleagues, always helpful and never condescending. In the little free time we get, he sits around and talks with many of the orchestra kids, telling us many stories, giving us helpful ideas for performing, and teaching us a few Russian sayings. Mr. Knapp even went hiking in the mountains at 6 am this last Sunday with a group of students! He is a truly an amazing man, and I am so fortunate to have met and learned from him in my time at Quartz Mountain this summer.