When the Errington Hall opened a marimba program for grandparents and their grandchildren last summer, they were amazed at the response.
The hall had hoped to offer two classes but ended up having to add an extra one, according to a news release.
"We received lots of positive feedback from last year's summer program and are happy to offer it again," said program co-ordinator Valerie Dare. "Participants can expect to learn at least two marimba songs and also be introduced to African drumming."
This year there will be two instructors, allowing the classes to be expanded to include five grandparents with five grandchildren in each.
Classes are one hour daily from Monday to Friday, Aug.18 to Aug. 22. Two classes are offered in the morning and one in the afternoon. The afternoon class is already full but there are spaces available at 10 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.
Marimba specialist Robin Layne is returning as an instructor and he'll be joined by Penticton music teacher Fahlon Palm.
Some may remember Palm from her days with the local marimba performance group Kumbana, whose joyful sounds could be heard weekly at the Craig Street Market.
There are opportunities for adults to continue with both activities during the fall. Marimba classes are organized by the Errington War Memorial Association and drumming sessions by the Arrowsmith Community Recreation Association, with both taking place at the Errington Hall.
The fee per pair of grandparents/grandchildren this summer is $100. Dare said the hall is able to provide a high level of instruction at a lower fee because the marimba program is subsidized by a New Horizons for Seniors grant.
Registration forms with with further information on fees are available by contacting Dare at vgdare@shaw.ca or calling 250-248-0153.
