When Mike Block’s international string camp lights up Vero’s summer music activities next week, seven students from the Gifford Youth Orchestra will be front and center in the student body. They will be improving their performance skills under the guidance of some of the country’s finest professional musicians.
“It’s an amazing chance for our kids to interact with pioneers who are changing how people think about these instruments and the music that can be played with them,” said GYO board member Warren Obluck.
The local students are: Luke Pelt, 12th grade; Jada Powell, 10th; Jhovanny Vite, 7th; Tatiana Wallace, 9th; Isabella Cruz, 7th; Pryscalina Douzable, 10th; and Mieca-Eeja Ferguson, 8th.
The first four received Mike Block String Camp Scholarships and the final three are recipients of the Becky Stewart Memorial Fund. This Fund was established specifically to allow Gifford Youth Orchestra students to attend the camp.
Dr. Crystal Bujol, co-founder and artistic director of the GYO, is enthusiastic about the impact of the experience on her students.
“This camp of intensive string instrument training and international student interaction paints pictures for the minds of our children that are much more than just 1,000 words,” she says. “Mike Block’s Camp touches their souls, their spirits, and their hearts with dreams of better tomorrows.”
During the camp, string players of all ages and backgrounds learn non-classical traditions and contemporary musical styles. These include bluegrass, jazz, pop and rock, and world music among others. The students focus on learning by ear, creativity, collaboration, and performance.
The summer camp is highlighted by the Vero Beach International Music Festival, a series of free concerts. They will be held July 10-13 at First Presbyterian Church at 520 Royal Palm Blvd.
