letters and feedback

Recent comments from the my home town helper grant

Katryna Kuss
on March 07, 2007

This is the best camp I have ever gone to! Its so fun and I met a lot of new friends. The counselors are really funny. I also learned a lot about music and music theory. If I went anywhere else, well I wouldn't be as smart on music as I am now. I LOVE THIS CAMP!!!

Mary Kuss (USN Ret)
on March 07, 2007

My children grew up in the Navy and have been enrolled in many of the DOD Education programs and this one is one of the best. My daughter will be attending for the 3rd year, my son will be enjoying his 1st. My children schedule their summer around NYMP Camp & cut visits with other family members short to attend. I will enjoy watching the self assurance rise with each day and performance!!

C. R. Schwegman
on March 05, 2007

I strongly believe tht NYMP is worthy of the above grant. My son participated in the NYMP last summer for the first time and had a wonderful experience--both musically and socially. He wants to return this summer--perhaps for two sessions. Before last summer's camp, he was an average player in his school band. Now he plays first chair! NYMP is a great program for my son and young musicians!

Becky
on February 26, 2007

My son has attended NYMP Jazz camp for the past two summers. We live about 150 miles south of Duluth, and the trek north is well worth it. The quality of the instructors is incredible. Most importantly, this program is affordable. I have not found anything comparable closer to home. I am single parent and NYMP fits my tight budget. It has boosted my sons self-esteem and love of music.

Courtney Anelli
on February 22, 2007

As a former student and now employee of the NYMP, I just wanted to say how great of a camp it is. I went for five years each for however many weeks was offered, before becoming a counselor. I love watching everyone struggle on the first two days, but by the concert, everyone nails all the music. It's amazing how all the students can learn very challenging music in just really three days.

Janet MacDonald
on February 20, 2007

I am writing both as a parent of a student that has attended the NYMP choir and jazz band camp and as the high school band director in Two Harbors. We have had students in the program for the last several years. I cannot say enough positive things about the staff, curriculum and worthwhile program that is being offered at such an affordable price to students due to your generosity. Thanks you!

Kris & Kevin C.
on February 17, 2007

Our son is a serious and dedicated music student, and he loves NYMP! So do we. He's done a jazz week the past two years. The end-of-the-week concert is a truly amazing and uplifting experience for the performers and their families. The staff are dedicated and talented. The kids work hard, have a lot of fun, and are well taken care of. NYMP provides high quality at an affordable price.

Matt Mealey
on February 16, 2007

The N.Y.M.P. is a wonderful asset to the Northern WI/MN fine arts community and music education programs. I personally have witnessed numerous student success stories, and I have heard from students' band directors and parents about how thankful they are that the N.Y.M.P exists and that they welcome ALL students, regardless of their financial situations. Best wishes for many more years of success

Kathryn Sandor
on February 10, 2007

Last summer was my first time teaching flute at the NYMP. It is amazing! The music teachers involved are wonderful and provide a high-quality musical experience for the students. Bob works hard to make it affordable, which makes this camp attainable for any student interested in attending. Enrollment continues to grow each year. I look forward to working with them again this summer.

Robert Lee
on February 10, 2007

This camp is a wonderful phenomenon that deserves all the help it can get for the joy and positive reinforcement its given to so many kids. I have helped teach and lead groups at the concert band and jazz band sessions, and I can honestly say that only good comes out of this program, period.

Bill Tyler
on February 10, 2007

the nymp is an awesome program which provides a very positive atmosphere for youth in a college environment, personally I've gone twice and would like to keep going, but that won't happen if it can't find ways to support itself. so please support the nymp program, i love it there, and so do hundreds of other students

Carie
on February 10, 2007

I have gone to the NYMP camp two years in a row. It is one of the best experiences that I have had. This program brings together tons of kids from different towns, lifestyles, and backgrounds, together with a common interest and passion for music. It is amazing to see how many kids go there, and how many are changed because they meet new people, make new friends, and learn new things.

Carol Huray
on February 09, 2007

My daughter has been going to camp for several yrs. Has went to all 3 camp prog. & went as many as 4 wks in one yr. She has a great time & improves her music & voice. The end of the wk. concert is amazing, many of our friends & family go. Thanks to all the talented staff who work to provide a safe program for kids to learn & make music with lots of fun! & to Bob for making sure all kids can attend

Lisa P
on February 09, 2007

2006 was our first experience with the NYMP. Our son attended one of the Jazz camp weeks and loved it! He loved the seriousness of the students and staff to learn and grow in their music. The intensity and fun experience has drawn him to return again. Parents & grandparents are amazed at the concert provided at the end of the week! Excellent opportunity for all!

Cam D.
on February 09, 2007

Our children have attended the camp for several years. The camp has help with their weakness and made them stronger musicians. The addition of chorale to the program was great! Our children enjoyed the camp and thought it was truly amazing and made them stronger musicians. The staff is dedicated, and believe in helping students to become stonger musicians and have more confidence in themselves.

Donna Okash
on February 08, 2007

Our son has attended camp for the past two years. The first year he was at 1 week of concert band and 1 week of jazz. Last year he attended 3 weeks. 1 each of choir, concert, and jazz. He loves it all. The quality of the staff, quality of instruction, "fun activities in the evenings", it is all around an enriching experience. I would highly recommend program and hope it continues to grow.

Char Birdseye
on February 07, 2007

My daughter never played a drum in her life the 1st time she went to jazz camp 4 yrs ago, yet she had a great time and improv'ed on stage at the concert. Now she is in her h.s. jazz band. Thanks to all the energetic, talented board & staff who work patiently to provide a safe space for young people to learn and make music with confidence and joy! And to Bob for making sure all kids can attend.

Laura Y.
on February 06, 2007

My daughter attended NYMP for the first time last summer. She had a fantastic time and wants to go for 2 weeks this summer! It is a wonderful program! You can tell how great it is by what the students learn and come away with in just a week! This program is well worth the funding, we are so fortunate to have this opportunity available to our children!

Shelley B
on February 06, 2007

My children have attended this program for 3 years now. It is amazing what these kids learn in a week. In a time when school funding for music/art is cut, this is an excellent opportunity for kids. The quality of the instructors ia unsurpassed and the tuition makes it affordable for all kids. Its an excellent program the Duluth/Superior area cannot afford to loose.

Bill Dixon
on February 06, 2007

This is one of the most fabulous programs my children have ever been a part of. My children not only enjoyed this program, but, learned a great deal about becoming proficient. This program makes practice fun and they bring that home. I recommend this to anyone with children who play an instrument at any level. It would be a sad day if this were to stop.

Bill Dixon

Maximilian M.
on February 05, 2007

I have attended this camp for 5 years and am looking forward to the sixth next summer, I've been going for all 4 weeks in the past two years. I can sincerely say that this camped has helped me grow and mature into a better person, especially in the music department there is not enough room to say how much I have learned and enjoyed learning at this camp for that it is the highlight of my summer.

Adam Holden
on February 05, 2007

Since 6th grade I have enjoyed the N.Y.M.P band camp. I have learned a lot of more difficult music and met alot of great friends during0 1the camp. Sincerely: Adam

Terri and Dale
on February 05, 2007

The NYMP summer program is a wonderful program. My son has excelled in his music abilities since attending the program. This year will be his fourth year attending and he plans to attend all four weeks of the program. He is so excited and passionate about music, he is now able to play four instruments and he looks forward to playing a fifth. It's a great program and your support will be appreciated.

Terri
on February 05, 2007

What a wonderful program for our youth! My daughter has attended the camp and shall continue as long as she is able. It is amazing what they all accomplish in a weeks time. We need more programs like this for the youth of our country. I can't say enough about the wonderful staff and volunteers. Keep up the great work. Thank you!

osh
on February 05, 2007

I like the NYMP program because it gives me a learning experience. I enjoy it because there are many people I can make friends with.

Ashley
on February 05, 2007

this is a great camp who does so much for kids who just have a love for music. my experience's here are one's that I won't soon forget, it's a way to get together with a bunch of other kids throughout MN and WI who share a common interest, you make many friends and you learn things about music and just life in general.

Amber
on February 05, 2007

NYMP is the best camp ever!!! I go to multiple camps every year, and I am giving up a couple of them so I can keep going to NYMP. I love staying in the dorms. I've been going to camp forfour years and it has helped me become a much better musician. Every one who plays an instrument should go to NYMP!!!!

Kristin C.
on February 05, 2007

My daughter has attended NYMP Choral program for the past two years. It has been an amazing experience for her and all the kids that attend. It is incredible what they accomplish in a weeks time. The concert at the end of the week is just amazing!!! This camp
provides an awesome opportunity for those who attend. I can't say enough wonderful things about the staff and the camp. Kristin C.

Jessica
on February 05, 2007

As an alumni of the NYMP band camp, I have learned alot, and has even helped me decide where I should go to school. After spending three summers at UWS for band camp I decided to go to UWS for college, and I have a music minor. I attribute much of my musical knowledge and ability to that camp.

Katie
on February 05, 2007

The Northland Youth Music Program is awesome! I have learned many new things I have taken home and used at my school band. The people who run the camp are nice and helped me so much with music. Also at this camp I have made many new friends, and I can't wait to come again this year!

Kayla Rapp
on February 05, 2007

NYMP is the BEST camp i have ever been to. it is a lot of fun and you can invite buddies to hang with you. Staying on campus adds a whole new experience. you get a partner in your dorm and then you for sure make a new friend. I have been challenged with harder pieces of music and wonderful counselors!! i think every body should go to this camp 'cause it is THE BEST CAMP EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-Kayla Rapp

Brian V. Rapp
on February 05, 2007

The N.Y.M.P. is the very best music program I have ever experienced. As parents of a child who attends, We can tell you without hesitation that this program promotes music, learning, friendships and respect otherwise unavailable in this area. Their grant should be $7,000,000, not $7,000, and it still wouldn't be what it's worth!
Very Sincerely Yours, Brian and Karen.

Linda Gokee-Rindal
on February 05, 2007

As an alumna and employee of NYMP (and someone who has experienced other summer music programs), I can attest that the Northland Youth Music Program is a wonderful experience for young musicians of any background. Seeing the students grow in such a short period of time is truly inspiring and rewarding, and as soon as the camp ends each year I begin to look forward to the next.

Fay
on February 04, 2007

my son attended for the firts time this summer. As a result he is now planning on going again this coming summer. It has improved his musical skills and confidence greatly. He is now in the Jazz Band at school and doing solos. Thanks to the dedicated and fun teachers at NYMP my son has become a much more outgoing person in all areas of his life. Thank you for your support.

Arielle D.
on February 04, 2007

This summer will be my third year attending camp. I had heard about the program and decided to check it out. After going just one week, I learned so much and I improved immensely. The staff is fantastic, and you meet so many great people. There's a feeling you get when you're at camp, and the last night when you perform is always unforgettable. I am so excited to go back this year!!!

Amanda O
on February 04, 2007

After working at the NYMP for 3 years, it's the force that keeps me focused on why I am a music educator. I speak on behalf of the staff when I say it is something we all look forward to each year. The students who attend grow leaps and bounds in a weeks time and are amazing to work with. It is the safest, fun & most positive environments available. Thank you for your support.

Beth A.
on February 04, 2007

The Northland Youth Music Program started out as a dream, and has become a reality through the hard work and dedication of many people. I have attended four weeks of this program over the course of three years, and I can only marvel at what we, the students, counselors, and instructors, have accomplished. Smiles, laughter, and "Way to go's can only attest to the impact of this program.

Patti Burns
on February 04, 2007

I have had several band students attend NYMP and seen the positive impact NYMP has. Students who have attended NYMP have taken their skills to a higher level of performance and musical enjoyment. The availability of such a fantastic enrichment program in our area is invaluable. The staff is highly qualified and their enthusiasm and love of music education is clearly undeniable.

Anne Pederson
on February 04, 2007

My daughters have really enjoyed spending time with other students who really love music. The music program NYMP has is super the students thrive on their excitement. Your support is greatly appreciated as the cost of other programs is definitely prohibitive for lots of people, including myself. NYMP has kept costs to a minimum due their work at finding sponsors like you. Thanks again.

Mary Courage
on February 03, 2007

Whenever I hear the students play, I think how wonderful it is that they have this opportunity available and that they are learning an art, a discipline and skills they can use their entire lives. The consciousness of these young people has been raised to view education in a positive light, and to interact with adults and other youth in a joyous event such as this is beautiful to see and hear.

Romaine Quinn
on February 03, 2007

I just have to say that this camp is the most fun I have every had with music. They use some of the most caring staff, but at the same time it is run efficiently so there is a ton of learning involved. My friends told me about his place and I didn't really like music, but I have to this this place re sparked my interest in it, and I have been going ever since. Please help this program continue.

Kim Squillace
on February 03, 2007

My son has really enjoyed the 6 weeks of NYMP camp he has attended in the past 4 years. It is a wonderful program, especially for younger music students in our area. It has helped to keep his interest in music and he has gained great experience playing with all the other students and staff. NYMP is very worthy of this grant.

Jeff Engholm
on February 03, 2007

As a music educator and professional performer, I have seen many music programs and worked with many many students. Rarely have I seen the results and FUN had by everyone at the NYMP. The staff is top notch, the facilities are ideal, and the performances are amazing. The percentage of returning students from year to year is a great indicator of the level at which this organization is operating.

Alicia and Greg Truttmann
on February 03, 2007

Our 3 kids- Tiffany, Chelsea and Tristan, had an excellent band
education in 2006 at NYMP. It
is open-minded to the way kids
like to learn about instruments
and the team band experience. They took part in concert band and the jazz band weeks. Excellent and highly recommended.

Tina
on February 03, 2007

My son went for the first time last year and attended two sessions. He has gone to a lot if different summer camps but this one was the best. His playing improved immensely, he had an incredible amount of fun, the counselors were supportive, funny, and talented and the atmosphere at the public performance was one of encouragement and pride. This is a fantastic program!

Dustin Rakotz
on February 02, 2007

yea this program is great you have a lot of fun and learn how to play your instrument 10 times better then when u get there i had a great time and plan on returning this year July

Laura
on February 02, 2007

I am a junior and have attended NYMP for 3 years. My time spent at camp has been incredibly fun and exciting. It has been great to play challenging music, learn more techniques specific to my instrument, and get to know the other campers. I especially love the talented and caring staff. Grants like this one have made camp affordable for me when it wouldn't be otherwise. I can't wait to come back!

Ben R
on February 02, 2007

The NYMP has helped me get more involved in my band back home. They have taught me tons of things and I have meet tons of new friends. It is very fun!

Rose Kuhlman
on February 02, 2007

My son attended NYMP for the first time last summer. It was a great experience. He grew as a musician. It was a wonderful environment for a kid. It was a place to see kids of all ages openly digging their music. It was also a chance to get to know young adults who cared enough to nurture the younger kids. The concert at the end of the week was spectacular. Surely a program worth funding.

Delores Grunwald
on February 02, 2007

My son went to a NYMP jazz camp for the first time last summer (2006). He was hesitate at first about jazz and by the end of the week he was highly motivated to attend the next summer's camp. The staff were energetic, motivating and also expected great things from the students. The collection of jazz instructors at these camps is amazing.

Wendy M
on February 02, 2007

My son has attended NYMP twice. I can't believe all he learned regarding scales and musicality. The kids learn so much and have so much fun doing it. We really enjoy the final concert showcasing what the kids learn at camp.

Mark Roisen
on February 02, 2007

The Northland Youth Music program offers students from across the state of Minnesota a learning experience that broadens their understanding of a wide array of musical styles. It also introduces the students to new techniques and improves the students' playing ability. The interaction and performance opportunities leave the students with a great all around musical experience!

susan alice shay
on February 02, 2007

My three sons attended NYMP for several years. They enthusiastically endorse the camp. They got fired up about music. Instructors are carefully chosen for their talents, dispositions, and ability to share musical knowledge with kids. The camp is well-planned; evening "camping" activities a blast. We love the final concerts; lots of musical growth evident. We parents appreciate the affordable price.

Brenda Morrow
on February 02, 2007

Last year was my daughters first year attending NYMP, she very much enjoyed the experience she was able to have and we were glad we could let her have the experience being that it was reasonably priced. They did a wonderful job with all the students and put on a wonderful performance on the last day to show all the parents what they have learned.

Mary Donaldson
on February 02, 2007

My 2 sons attended N.Y.M.P. for three years- thanks to scholarships. My oldest son (trumpet) is self directed, my second son (drummer) thinks he is a rock star. The drummer is more gifted, but unmotivated until he went to NYMP - because the instructors are talented musicians, but more importantly they are TEACHERS. My son is now motivated and has a dream of being in music production, because of NYMP

Janet Windus
on February 02, 2007

NYMP is a wonderful program. We have attended for 3 years and look forward to it this summer. Bob's mission is to make it accessible to all who want to attend, regardless of their financial situation. My children have attended other band camps, at twice the cost, and they don't compare to what these kids are able to accomplish on just one week. The teachers, counselors and helpers are saints!

Cary Komoto
on February 02, 2007

The Northland Youth Music Program is great! My daughter attended one of the band sessions last summer. I was amazed that after only one week, the NYMP directors were able to take a number of musicians, many of whom had never played together before, and shape them into a real live band. The end of the session concert was amazing and despite the heat in the auditorium, it was excellent!

around. I had such a wonderful time learning music from the great directors and getting to know the

staff. I had never been to a music camp before this, and it truly was the greatest thing that's ever

happened to me. It's people like YOU who make my life that much brighter...I'll be seeing ya.

Feedback from a recent student and parent from Minong Wisconsin October 2006

Despite initial objections my girls both appreciated the pre camp (theory) quiz.

I cannot begin to thank enough everyone in anyway connected with the camps, for