Fiddle Camp

The last week in July is fiddle camp.  Solomon and Nova have attended fiddle camp more often than not since they have been old enough (7 or 8).  Most years one of the three days of camp falls on Solomon's birthday.  It is just plain fun.  They always come home really happy.  I believe they are playing Swedish fiddle music below.  This year they also focused American fiddle music.  The kids favorite song this year was 'Sally Goodin.'

In addition to the music, there is always a craft.  In the first photo Solomon is playing 'You are My Sunshine' on his one-string dulcimer--this year's craft.  With staples for frets and a cigar box body, this 100% playable craft project has been declared the coolest yet.  Solomon tried to keep it a secret during camp, but Nova just couldn't stand the suspense and spilled the beans.  Past crafts include bodhrans (Irish drums), Mardi Gras masks, and bones (the instrument).   

Ross Sutter, the mastermind behind all the crafts, helps the kids tune their dulcimers.

What is fiddle music without a little dancing?  The kids also learn folk dances at camp and on the last day they get as many family members on the floor as possible.  Ariadne proved a little young for this particular dance, with all its allemandes, chasse and ducking under dancer-made bridges.  Granne and Solomon, and Charlotte and Nova held their own though.  Imagine all the adults going under the little bridge made by Nova and Charlotte's outstretched arms.   Ariadne got in on the last dance with me a--less complicated, but no less fun--circle dance.