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WHAT OUR PARTICIPANTS HAVE TO SAY

We consistently ask for and receive feedback from students, parents, musicians, educators and our supporters, which we review and consider in shaping and improving our programs. Here's what some have to say: 

"Our boys have been privileged to be a part of this amazing experience. The staff and mentors are passionate, dedicated and fun, bringing out the best in every camper. We are from Merritt and KISSM arranged for the boys to be billeted by wonderful families who also enriched their time and made them feel like they were part of a family while away from home. Over the last 5 years they have had a blast while developing interpersonal skills, musical talent, confidence in themselves and in their ability to work in a team. They have discovered they can do things they never thought possible and have made lifelong friendships.Truly the highlight of their summer! I know KISSM will always have a special place in their hearts. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for this priceless, precious gift!"

Carrie-Lynn Snee, Parent

“I have been working with the Kamloops Music Collective to provide instrumental music instruction to grade 6&7 students in the Valleyview secondary catchment area for the past two years. This program has not only increased the numbers in my own band program, it has helped to strengthen the bonds between our family of schools, has helped the elementary students transition into high school, and has provided a sense of community to all of our students. Without programs like Band Together, The Whole Note and KISSM, I would not have been able to revitalize the music program at VSS so effectively and in such a short amount of time.”

Jaymi Daniels, Music Educator

Valleyview Secondary School

“The Kamloops Music Collective is an extremely important partner in multiple SD73 district arts programs. For the past two years, KMC supported and revitalized our district jazz program by co-creating SD73 Jazz Jam, an intensive hands-on exploration of jazz music with a professional jazz quintet. KMC also helped transform our district strings concert from a simple presentation to an exciting full day of music workshops for more than 120 young strings players, giving them the chance to explore drumming and ukulele and connect students in friendships across the district before the final concert showcasing their learning in strings. Our district music events have greatly expanded in authentic learning opportunities thanks to the support and partnership of the Kamloops Music Collective.”

Christy Gauley, Arts Education Coordinator

School District 73

“The Kamloops Music Collective has been an incredible organization to have advocating for our school's music students. The thousands of dollars of bursary money made available to my students to attend either KISSM, and / or receive free, private music lessons has made an incredible impact on their lives and the calibre of the music program that I am able to offer at my school. I am very appreciative of the fact that the KMC consistently supports our school's music students via such a plethora of creative facets.”

Jarrett Schill, Music Educator

Brock Middle School

"As a young and learning student at KISSM, this place has allowed me to grow more than any regular school ever could have. I remember attending my first year of KISSM how afraid I was. I worried I wouldn't fit in, or it would be too much money, and i was scared i'd be alone. When I arrived i realized I had nothing to worry about. The mentors, the teachers, and the students were all so welcoming. I was never alone or left out. KISSM also helped my mom and I find some amazing bursaries, so I could go despite my low income. Not only was, and still is, KISSM accommodating to everyone, but it's also the highlight of my year. I always enjoy KISSM whether I'm at a concert or a class. Also KISSM hasn't just taught me about music, but it's also helped me mature and learn about myself. KISSM truly means a lot to me, and I would recommend it to anyone." 

Mandy Maher, Student

"As a long-standing sponsor of the Kamloops Interior Summer School of Music (KISSM), Stewart Mortgage Corp. has witnessed the positive impact this camp has on children’s lives. More recently, we've partnered with the Kamloops Music Collective, which oversees KISSM, to help deliver their newest music program, Whole Note. Being part of Whole Note — which helps young musicians whose families face financial barriers with the cost of music lessons and KISSM camp fees — has allowed our company to make a difference in the lives of local youth and their creative pursuits."

Jamie Stewart, Sponsor

Owner

Stewart Mortgage Corp


"Portfolio Interiors sponsors the Kamloops Music Collective and its individual programs such as KISSM, Whole Note and Band together because we believe in the benefits of music education and the positive impact it can have in the development of children and youth in our community. We’ve been thrilled with the partnership so far and believe the values reflected in the Collective and the programs it provides to children and youth align well with our commitments to giving back to our community."

Dap Pan, Sponsor

Owner

Portfolio Interiors

"Kamloops Ford Lincoln became involved with the Kamloops Interior Summer School of Music (KISSM) because we believe in supporting local not-for-profit organizations that would otherwise have a difficult time raising money and/or support for the people in our community. One of the greatest moments for us in being part of this organization was at the end of a KISSM concert when we saw how happy all of the campers were and how everyone seemed to fit in with each other. It was the same year we learned our KISSM sponsorship funds allowed for stage curtains for performances planned throughout the KISSM camp. Knowing that made me and our entire team very happy and proud to be a part of this wonderful program. Providing support to KISSM and the community exposure we receive based on this partnership is valuable to our business." 

Steve Davidson, Sponsor

Owner

Kamloops Ford Lincoln

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