This Summer, Camp was transformed into a place of notes and smiles as music took up residence for the first time. Thanks to donations from generous Conistonians, guitars hung on every wall and a keyboard sat in every corner of the former Staff Lodge. The porch overlooking the lake quickly became a favorite spot for rehearsals and jam sessions. From sunup to sun down, melodies drifted across the water.
Music program director and founder Grace Ferguson said, “Creating music and performing music is super vulnerable and I think being able to foster an environment for young kids to try it out is super important, and I think a lot of kids don’t really get that chance.”
Grace, who is a member of the band Luna and the Carpets, is the latest in a long-line of Coniston musicians. Notable artists like Noah Kahan and Hans Williams honed their skills at Camp, and thanks to Grace, countless more kids will get that chance.
Grace is really hopeful the program continues. For many campers, it is their first chance to play an instrument. A lot of kids were there just to experiment. Grace noted that exposing kids to different instruments, especially at a young age, allows kids to be creative and explore in completely new ways. The very act of singing and playing music together connects us with an entirely new group of people. It is not only good for us as individuals in that we learn a new skill, it is that camp is teaching individuals a new way to connect and make new friends.
“It was just so amazing watching them grow even in the short two weeks. We had so many campers that really flourished. I think watching that was just a super rewarding experience,” said Grace.
While not every camper will someday sell out Fenway Park or sign a record deal, music will always have a home at Coniston. And Camp will continue to be the first stage for generations of Conistonians to come.
