Guitar Camp 2004

On 28 August 2004, I attended a most interesting Guitar Camp organised by the Classical Guitar Society (Sel/FT) Malaysia. The main purpose of the camp was to bring together guitarists from beginner to advanced levels so that we get to interact* with one another and to learn more about the guitar. 

After the registration in which we were told the groups we were in, the Vice President of CGS, Billy Ng, gave a briefing on the activities planned for the day. Then the President of CGS, Simon Cheong, made a welcoming speech and thanked everyone who had worked hard to put the camp together. Eric Eng, a committee member, followed up with a fun-filled ice-breaker activity. After scrambling around seeking their partners, the warmed-up campers were rewarded to an English-style breakfast, complete with steaming cups of tea. 

A photo session saw everyone flashing on their best smiles for remembrance. Immediately after this, Fung Tong Sen, the Assistant Secretary of CGS, challenged the campers to a tricky finger challenge exercise. Campers had to play this exercise over and over again, each time at a quicker tempo. What fun! 

At noon, the campers were allowed to practise in their respective groups for their performances. An hour later, lunch was served. The scrumptious spread included a wide variety of delicious dishes. As the schedule was tight, a few participants were chosen to perform during tea breaks and lunch. After lunch, the Kuala Lumpur Guitar Ensemble II gave their very first performance ever. We were treated to an enthralling performance that ended with an encore. 

After the spectacular performance, the President conducted a master class in which four participants played. These participants ranged from a beginner to a diploma student. After each performance, we were enlightened by Simon’s comments. He highlighted their weaknesses in their music and technique. After the master class, there was tea and more food was served. 

At last, it was the participants’ chance to perform in their respective groups. A total of thirteen groups performed. The groups were judged throughout the day and after the performance, the best groups were awarded prizes. 

The grand finale was the lucky draw. Five guitars were given away to five lucky campers. It was indeed an enjoyable experience for everyone, including the organisers. I am sure that next year’s camp will be just as well organised as this year’s, and I am definitely going to be there.

Ashwini Menon

(Ashwini is 14 years old and resides in Shah Alam. She has been studying the classical guitar for nearly a year now.)

* Editor’s note: This sort of interaction generates a lot of enthusiasm which is highly infectious and that is very good for the promotion of the classical guitar.