Lake Aurora Christian Camp and Retreat Center in central Florida added several of Percussion Play’s instruments to its 75-acre campsite in the spring. They include a metallophone, which resembles a xylophone, with a book of “high-pressure laminated music sheets” with colored written notes that match the keys of the instrument. Among the songs are “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” and “Amazing Grace.”
“A neighboring town garden has outdoor musical instruments, and I’d been keen to install something similar for a while,” said Steve Bornemann, of the camp’s executive team, in a statement. “Their instruments are inclusive for wheelchair users, which was important for us so that we can ensure that all of our guests can enjoy playing them.”
At Cross Tracks, the memorial garden includes indigo and red “Harmony Flowers,” which can be played with an attached green mallet, and a “Penta Post,” a multicolored collection of chimes attached to a stainless-steel column.
The garden was put in place in time for Easter, with volunteers organized by a Boy Scout member working to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. Turner said the project cost about $4,000 overall, including gravel donated by a local landscaper.
Cross Tracks Church. Courtesy photo by Jim Turner
She said the musical instruments were a particularly fitting way to memorialize Noble. The former opera singer and school superintendent, who died after heart surgery, was a volunteer who started the church’s bell choir, played in its praise band and directed the choir.
“She glorified God by music,” said Turner. “She was a wonderful gift to our church and the community for that.”
Now, it’s the turn of others to make music on the church’s campus in Noble’s memory.
Turner, who claims to have no musical bone in her body, said she has even played the instruments.
“I have no musical ability whatsoever,” she said. “But I’m making a joyful noise.”
This article originally appeared here.
