Outdoor Music Making Thrives in Camp Courageous

Music in Action: A Story of Inclusion, Joy, and Connection

We spoke with Sonya Belew, Chief Operating Officer and HR Director of Camp Courageous, about the impact of outdoor musical instruments installed at the camp. Since their introduction, these instruments have helped create a more inclusive, engaging environment where individuals of all abilities can connect through music. From spontaneous play to shared musical experiences, the space has become a hub of creativity, joy, and social interaction.

Music has become an essential part of daily life at Camp Courageous, supporting connection, confidence, and creative expression. 🎧 Listen to the full conversation below to hear how music is making a difference every day at Camp Courageous:

Located in Iowa, Camp Courageous serves nearly 10,000 campers year-round, offering recreational, respite, and travel programs for individuals of all ages with disabilities. Since 1972, the camp has been dedicated to finding innovative, inclusive approaches to meet the needs of campers with a wide range of physical and educational needs.

Building the Music Park

In 2021, Camp Courageous created a dedicated Music Park by installing 12 outdoor musical instruments from Percussion Play, including:

• Stepping Stones
• Bell Lyre
• Diatonic Tembos
• large Babel Drum
• Tubular Bells
• Rainbow Cavatina and Music Book

These instruments are used during group music sessions, spontaneous play, and transition periods between camp activities. They promote exploration of sound, rhythm, and melody in a way that’s accessible and engaging for all campers.

Sonya Belew reflects on the lasting quality and positive impact of the instruments:

“We do cover them in the winter, but we’ve been really happy with the quality and durability of the instruments. The colors are still as vibrant as when we bought them, and even though they’re used intensively year-round, they still look beautiful and sound perfect.”

She adds:

"Music-making has a profound impact on our campers - fostering creativity, enhancing emotional expression, coordination, and concentration. Most importantly, it brings people together in a shared, joyful experience.”

The Music Park isn’t just for campers. Counselors actively participate in the music-making experience, guiding and supporting campers as they explore each instrument. Even members of the local community stop by to join in, often bringing their own instruments to play side by side with campers.

Don’t miss our full conversation with Sonya Belew in the podcast above. It’s an inspiring look at how music fosters connection, confidence, and community - and how outdoor musical instruments can change lives, one note at a time.

Key Takeaways

• Outdoor musical instruments support inclusive play and emotional development
• Music enhances coordination, concentration, and creativity
• High-quality, durable instruments stand the test of time - even in year-round use
• Community engagement and counselor participation amplify the benefits