Sunday's Studio Session with Camp Kerry
Almost every touching story starts with a connection between two people, and this one is no exception. It begins with the friendship of Amy and Andrew. As two colleagues often do, Amy and Andrew share their interests and hobbies. Being involved in the 2014 Peak Performance Project, it is on the list of exciting things to talk about, and in relation to this, Amy is one of the sweet souls involved in the non-for-profit charity known as the Camp Kerry Society. Those that volunteer within Camp Kerry are there to provide bereavement care and support to youth and families in time of grieving.
The Camp Kerry Society was founded by music therapists. Music therapy plays a large role in the healing process by the use of various music and art interventions after an individual or family has experienced the loss of a loved one. The music that we listen to, write, record, and play, plays such an integral and irreplaceable role in each of our lives. At first mention of such a society that we could lend a hand to, there was no hesitation to engage in such an experience.
With our plans in place, we geared up and loaded every guitar, amplifier, drum, and percussive tool we owned into the Nimbus School of Recording Arts (made possible by the ever-so-gracious Garth Richardson). Facilitating the recording session, advanced recording production students Charles and Ross were also kind enough to give an informative tour of the studio for all sixteen attendees
After a quick introduction of the band, we invited everyone to join us for an impromptu jam. Some played guitar with Alex, others joined Mike in singing, while Turner received help on the keys. Jovan set the tempo at the kit, but not before introducing guests to our vast array of percussion including: congas, djembes, bongos, maracas, tambourines, and spoons! As each person felt more comfortable in the room, their enjoyment and enthusiasm quickly grew.
We soon began the process of recording a very special song that was written by the kids of Camp Kerry at their annual retreat held just a few weeks prior. It became immediately apparent that the song held great depth and meaning to all of those in attendance, as it directly addressed the loss of a loved one. After a swift run through of song, live recording was underway, and out of the three live takes that were recorded, number two was selected, RocknRoll baby!
As a band, and as individuals, this was an equally rewarding experience for all of us involved. We are so very thankful to have been given the opportunity to give something back. The notion that there is no substitute for face-to-face interaction with individuals on such a personal level has become ever so apparent to all of us this passing Sunday. That being said, Camp Kerry is also in need of financial aid to continue to provide services such as grief counseling, youth programs, support groups, workshops, annual retreats, and much more.
To assist with financial aid, we have organized a Fundraiser & Silent Auction to take place on Friday, October 10th at The Sin Bin Sports Grill (295 W2nd Ave). We invite you to join us for an evening of live acoustic music, feature video footage, and silent auction bidding that starts at 7pm. The ticket cost of the event is $20 and 100% of funds raised go directly to the Camp Kerry Society. This ticket purchase ALSO automatically enters you to win a grand prize trip for two to Las Vegas! We are compelled to share this incredibly rewarding experience that we have been a part of, not only to increase awareness, but also to provide others with the same meaningful opportunity to give back to the community.
Peace and Love,
Damn Fools
CampKerry.org
NimbusRecording.com
