BONNERS FERRY -- Diverse in terms of age and personalities but one in their love of song, six students, ranging in age from 7 to 15, met with instructor Autumn Mackert this week for Youth Choir Camp at the Pearl Theater.

Mackert introduced them to time signatures by demonstrating the differences between a march and a waltz. She provided examples of each and encouraged the students to move in time to the music. The instructor also explained the concept of breath control.

"Your voice is like a muscle," she told her class. "If you don't stretch it before you use it, it can hurt. Your diaphram is basically a big balloon that supports your ribcage. When we sing, we want to make sure we're filling up our diaphragms with air."

Campers practiced singing major and minor scales to the accompaniment of pianist Lily Anderson to warm up their voices and practice breath control. "Miss Autumn is a great teacher," said Melanie Klaus, age 10.

Mackert studied voice performance at Eastern Washington University. A resident of Bonners Ferry for the past year, she also directs a children's choir, which rehearses weekly at the Pearl. Auditions for new choir members ages 8 through 18 will take place Aug. 23.

Information:  208-610-2846.