ERRINGTON — The rhythms are infectious. They get right into your blood and very nerves, causing the heart to race and the toes to tap.
But how is it done? How do musicians make the world music sound so compelling?
District 69 residents will once again have an opportunity to learn these secrets at the third annual Afro-Mumanzi World Music Camp, slated to run from August 13 to 17 at the Errington War Memorial Hall.
Like the music it explores, the camp is highly popular, with fully 20 of this year’s 30 places for youths aged nine to 18 already filled by students who took part in last year’s camp.
However, organizers note there are some spaces still available — at least for now. However, that situation isn’t expected to last.
For the low price of $50, participants gain 15 hours of instruction in marimba, dance, and hand drumming and perform at a community picnic to wind up the week.
The instruction is provided by the five members of Afro-Mumanzi — Fahlon and Jasmine Smith, Kai Buchan, Chris Couto, Theo Vincent — as well as a special guest dance instructor, Ottawa’s Kaly Soro.
The six young instructors bring a great deal of experience as performers and teachers plus a lively energy to the classes. The camp is organized and sponsored by the Errington War Memorial Hall Association as a service to the community.
Anyone who thinks their child or children would like to take part is encouraged to visit the Errington War Memorial Hall website for more information. As well, the registration form can be found on the Errington War Memorial Hall website (erringtonhall.bc.ca) or call hall board director and camp coordinator Val Dare at 250-586-6583.
— News staff