J. Clarke Richardson’s music programs are one of the most beloved departments within the school community. Notably, students that partake in music programs have been positively impacted by its annual camp retreats. However, some students, especially those in earlier grades, curiously speculate the significance of these camps; why should they consider joining them?
To obtain specifics about the 2025 Camp Kandalore Retreat, Ms. Warner, a teacher in the music department, has provided detailed explanations about the trip.
Q1: For those who are not currently a part of musical classes and extracurriculars, could you explain what the annual musical camping retreats are?
A1: “So, during the annual Retreat, we take students involved in music classes or extracurriculars away for three days to camp. We do a lot of really fun team-building activities, and have some rehearsal time where we start to learn our music. So, it’s a great opportunity for students to connect, and get to know one another, and also make a lot of memories that stay with them throughout high school.”
Q2: What activities did you and the campers partake in? Which one was your favourite?
A2: “Oh my goodness, we did so many activities – apart from rehearsal, which are always one of my favourite moments of camp. There was an activity this year at camp called ‘Team Swing’. There, eight students would hold the rope, and hoist up two more students on a harness in the air. We would have to run in order to get them around thirty feet high, and then we would pull the rope, and swing them into the trees. It was a really fun experience, and I know it was a highlight for a lot of people. And as well, ‘Broom Ball’ was a definite highlight for me.”
Q3: Were there any funny, or unforgettable moments during the trip?
A3: “An unforgettable moment that was kind of interesting, was that we found out that a new movie, Blackphone 2, was filmed at Camp Kandalore. So, I know a lot of people were excited to see the movie just to see scenes of camp while we were there.”
Q4: Which musical pieces did everyone play? What were things that everyone worked on (e.g. articulation), and other things that impressed you?
A4: “We did a variety of things, we read some of our current band pieces, and focused on dynamics and articulation control. In the second part, we handed out some new music, and did some sight reading. And then, we also took a look, and did some reading from some of the more senior band pieces. So, I know it was a good challenge for everybody, and we played a diverse amount of music, and had a lot of fun.”
Q5: In your opinion, what makes the Music Department’s annual camping trips so special?
A5: “I think what I love seeing as a staff member most is the relationships that students form and bond over the camping trip, and they get to know students that aren’t just in their grade, but also all grades throughout our music programs. So, it’s really special seeing those sorts of friendships and bonds form, and then knowing that those friendships kind of come back here to school, and we continue to see that over the next four years; that’s my favourite part of the journey.”
Q6: Besides the annual camping trips, why should students join music extracurriculars?
A6: “Because it’s the best! I’m a little biased, but personally, I think music is an awesome opportunity to get connected with other students, play in a group, and contribute to something bigger. To be a part of music festivals, various trips, and concerts that we go to and perform in, I think it’s just such a great whole-year extracurricular. And, when you take the music courses, it only enriches your experiences within those. So, I would recommend for everybody to get involved with bands, choirs, and getting to know the awesome music community here at Richardson.”
If interested in attending the next annual camping trip, students may wish to partake in any musical course or extracurricular, such as orchestra band. Prior to the retreat, teachers will provide brief overviews regarding necessities, such as payment, and food restrictions (if there are any concerns, the staff are more than willing to discuss terms with students).
Ultimately, students are encouraged to join musical courses and extracurriculars, even if they do not necessarily view themselves as “musically-inclined”. As Ms. Warner stated, J. Clarke Richardson’s welcoming music department wishes to share its love of the arts with newcomers. Unquestionably, the music department offers opportunities for musical growth, fond memories, and enhanced musical knowledge.
