Young musician wins trophy, camp scholarship
Written by Julie Borgen, Twin Cities media relations director for The Salvation Army Northern Division
Music has been called the language of love, a force that connects us–it’s even praised throughout the Bible– “Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord,” Ephesians 5:19.
At age 12, Selah Kirk (pictured above) knows just how powerful it can be. “It’s a good way to express myself,” she said. “I like playing the saxophone because I love the sound (watch video).”
This summer Selah had a chance to go to The Salvation Army music camp in Finlayson, Minn., where she and more than 80 other children were immersed in music and fellowship for a week.
“It’s a really great opportunity, because kids can borrow instruments and learn to play them,” Selah said. She loved the chance to unplug from outside distractions, too. “It’s really good, they take away your electronics, so you spend time outside, playing music and with other kids.”
And it paid off. Selah won second play in the solo competition, and she was awarded the Robert H. Johnson award for overall excellence, which includes a scholarship for her to attend camp again next year.
“I was like, yes! I jumped up and got my trophy,” Selah explained. “I didn’t want anything to happen, so I buckled up my trophy on the ride home, then I fell asleep, dreamt about the trophy, I was really happy I got it.”
That trophy and the scholarship that comes with it are thanks to a generous gift from the family of the late Major Robert H. Johnson. A lifelong Salvation Army officer, decorated WWII veteran and a gifted musician, Maj. Johnson played many instruments, but particularly loved the mandolin.
Before he passed away at the age of 86 in 2010, Maj. Johnson had instructed his family to offer a yearly scholarship to The Salvation Army’s music camp, so a child in need would have the opportunity to learn about music and Christ’s love.
“It’s really great that we have (donors) who are giving children an opportunity to go to camp like this,” said Matt Kirk, a Salvation Army social worker and Selah’s father (pictured with her, left). “This is one of the things The Salvation Army does really well–providing opportunities, and making it attainable for people to go.”
And even at her young age, Selah already knows what it gift it is in her own life and how it will impact other kids for many years to come.”I would say you’re great people and thanks for the opportunity of a lifetime,” Selah said.
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