What Students Are Saying About Music Camp 2009
Daniel Cépoudy: Ever since I left Limbé at the close of Camp 2009, I have not stopped talking about it to my family, friends, and the members of my church. I’ve also been talking to former campers telling them how much they missed by not attending NHMC this year. I respect and value the volunteer teachers who were so willing to share their knowledge, talents, and expertise with those of us who are in great need. Dr. Lilite’s partings words challenged us to read the book of Proverbs for the entire month of August and I managed to follow his advice. I can honestly say that my soul benefited greatly from that exercise. I am grateful to God for placing in the leadership of the camp the desire to care not only for our musical growth but also to invest in our souls. My hope is to someday earn a bachelor’s degree through the Fine Arts program at UCNH.
Gaslyne Bien-Aimé: I always love going to the Music Camp in Limbé because I always learn new things that challenge me to be a stronger individual in character and action.
Unfortunately, I could only come to the leadership portion and left early to take my college entrance exams. Yet, those four days spent with the teachers made me remember why I want to continue with music. It is hard to choose to pursue music as a career in Haiti since everyone feels that the poverty is too great for the superfluous nature of the arts. However, those volunteer teachers who came made me realize that there is nothing superfluous about music. It has purpose and the power to change lives for Christ because it has changed mine. I pray that the ministry of the camp will prosper.
Jude Balthazar: I still miss the camp and wish it could be a year-round opportunity. There is so much that I loved about Camp 2009: spiritual connections, voice lessons, choir, small groups, recitals, games, tasty food, amazing friends, small group discussions, mangoes at all hours of the day and night, and the teaching staff. Every day, I take some time to practice the vocal concepts that I learned at camp and sometimes I even teach others from my church. I really like singing and I want to be better each day. It is my dream to return year after year to the camp because it is the only place where I feel that I can currently receive this type of education or training in my country. I hope that I can study music at the University and help train others in my community to make a difference in Haiti.
Joseph Roméus: I am so grateful to God for the wonderful opportunity He gave me to be a part of Camp 2009 on the campus of UCNH. The whole experience is unforgettable. It was my very first trip to NHMC and I want it to become a yearly occurrence. I loved everything about it. I particularly enjoyed Viv nan limyè a (Live in the light) composed by Steve Dalrymple, the songs we sang in communal worship during the evening sessions, and the small group discussions during the noon hour. I am committed to praying for the leadership of the camp so that the leaders can continue to invest in this wonderful ministry for the sake of Haiti.
