30th Annual Diocesan Music Camp Held in June in Clear Lake Area

Music lovers united for the 30th Annual Diocesan Music Camp held in June 2022 in Nassau Bay. The classes were split between St. Thomas the Apostle, Nassau Bay, and the University of Houston Clear Lake.

Music campers took part in choral rehearsals, handbell rehearsals, and breakout groups in vocal or instrumental music at the church, with most meals held at the University. Garmon Ashby of St. Thomas served as the choral conductor. The Rev. Marcia Sadberry of St. Luke the Evangelist, Houston, led the instrumental rehearsals. Jackson Hearn of Good Shepherd, Kingwood, accompanied the choral rehearsals and led the handbell rehearsals. Campers in rising grades 7-12 from many different parishes developed a fun community of music enthusiasts.

Staff members Carver Mathis and Laurel Kroesch worked to fill out the schedule with fun camp activities. Added bonuses were a college tour (the first for many campers), crafts, and group games. Laurel Kroesch, who was a music camper for six years before becoming a music counselor, worked with registrar and camp director Linda Patterson to transition into future leadership for the camp.

Many young musicians like Kroesch have attended the camp as their first musical training, and several of them have gone on to careers in music as professional singers, conductors, or music teachers.

At the end of the week, a family closing service was held, demonstrating the many pieces learned during the camp. A highlight of the week was the group's trip to Space Center Houston.

Plans include moving the 2023 camp to the Bryan-College Station area, with housing at Texas A&M University. Scholarships will be available through a grant from the Gilbert & Thyra Plass Arts Foundation. Once dates are confirmed, information will be shared on the Music Commission webpage and through diocesan media. For more information, contact Dr. Linda Patterson, music@ standrewsbcs.org or 979-822-5176, ext. 105.