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NGI Recipient: Julian Bokulich

Session Attended: Folk Arts Center of New England - Cape Breton Weekend (2017)

The Pinewoods Cape Breton Weekend was absolutely amazing. Not only was the wilderness breathtaking, but the teachers and community were very kind and talented. The songs were not easy, yet the teachers could get the class playing in a snap. While there I learned many great Cape Breton tunes and even learned the bodhran on a pizza box! After you were done with classes you could go for a swim (the water was cold!), you could hike, or take a boat out. There was no place to escape music. The experience of hearing music floating from the trees as you are paddling a canoe into the sunset is indescribable. The cabins were everything you needed. The food was amazing and you could meet many new and interesting people at your table. There are jams, dances, and so much more. Then you go to bed at 12:00 exhausted — and get up for a brand new fun and exciting day. I would like to thank all the teachers and organizers for this wonderful experience. I would also like to thank Pinewoods and the Folk Arts Center for allowing me to be able to take part in this wonderful camp and for giving me memories that I will cherish forever. I look forward to coming back in later years.