July 23, 2026, Seward Folly

The Seward Arts Council, as part of their Artists in Schools program, brought music lovers together this week with its annual Summer Music Camp, running from July 20th to July 24th, 2026. Each day, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the camp offered a variety of classes for instruments like guitar, fiddle, ukulele, bass, banjo, and mandolin to Seward area youth.

This year’s camp offers something for everyone, from beginners picking up an instrument for the first time to seasoned musicians looking to hone their skills. The program also includes pop-up classes for adults, giving grown-ups a chance to learn and play along to popular favorites in a supportive setting.

There were at least three small classes at Resurrection Lutheran Church, and another two classes at the Teen Center, with students from all age groups. Photos by Tara Swanson

Last year, Makena DesErmia, a recent graduate of Seward High School, brought back the Summer Music Camp after a several-year hiatus. Inspired by her own childhood experience at music camp and noticing the absence of music classes in local schools, Makena has revived the tradition for a second year.

Organizers hope the camp will inspire participants to explore their musical talents and connect with the community. Classes are held at Resurrection Lutheran Church, the Senior Center, and the Teen Rec Room.

With financial and organizational support from the Seward Community Foundation and member Jenn DesErmia, and organizational support from Seward Arts Council Board Member Tara Swanson, and help from parent Alexis Kaferstein, 54 young musicians ages 7 to 14 immersed themselves in bluegrass. Throughout the week, they received lessons in guitar, fiddle, voice, ukulele, banjo, and mandolin. Another recent Seward High School graduate, Lola Swanson, offered a dance elective.

The camp’s faculty includes Bev Grogan on guitar, Caroline Pond on fiddle, Mary Schallert on bass, mandolin, and vocals, Jenn Haugh on ukulele and guitar, Rion Schmidt on banjo and ukulele, Iris Montesano (student of Mary Schallert) on voice, and Joel Williams on guitar. Makena herself also took on the role of instructor.

There were at least three small classes at the church and another two classes at the Teen Center, with students from all age groups. The camp had 54 kids, nine instructors, two camp managers, and a camp director this year.

Busking performances in front of the SeaLife Center, Ranting Raven, the children’s museum, and the Senior Center are planned for 12:30 to 1:30 this afternoon, Thursday. There will be a finale concert at Resurrection Lutheran Church on Friday, July 24, as a summation of the camp.