Ranger Champ Returns
Join Ranger Champ in classic campfire singalongs. Old favorites that everyone loves to sing will raise spirits in a fun and interactive experience. As part of the 2022 Kid-Tauqua schedule, Ranger Champ is a must-see for all ages.
Before the Victorian Chautauqua begins, Francis “Champ” Zumbrun captures imaginations in an unforgettable theme song he was asked to create. The commission was conceived to help people pronounce, spell, and learn the meaning of Chautauqua which is not a word in everyone’s vocabulary.
To demystify the "odd and lengthy word," as the song goes, Zumbrun, who is a songwriter and musician, concocted a catchy singalong theme song that teaches people about Chautauqua in a playful way. What is quickly learned is that one can’t spell Chautauqua without “U.” Zumbrun was the perfect composer for this task since he is a past master of this music genre. Among other songs to his credit, Zumbrun recorded and performed his delightful, Groundhog Day, at the 2016 annual celebration held in Punxsutawney, PA.
The Chautauqua Song’s stuck-in-your-head hook is filled by a choir rejoicing the word Chautauqua. Zumbrun also worked with sound engineer, Mark Gowans at Budger Records in Frostburg to write a fluid and flashy guitar riff that builds toward the final chorus. The song has a cozy contemporary sound that stems from classic rock origins, according to Zumbrun. It’s a great way to get into the Victorian Chautauqua spirit each year.
A Tradition Lives On
Champ, a retired park ranger, frequently leads campfire singalongs wearing his vintage-style park ranger uniform. His persona is fashioned after Maryland State Forester Fred Besley, who in 1921, hosted Chautauquaians Henry Ford and Thomas Edison when they camped at Swallow Falls State Park in Garrett County, Maryland. The historical connection could not be more perfect for his musical tribute to the Victorian Chautauqua.
Ranger Champ will return with his charming tribute to traditional campfire singalongs. Children and adults will enjoy his love of these old-time favorites that are easy to learn or remember. His interactive style makes it fun for kids to jump right in and join in the music. Adults will also want to take part to recall timeless melodies and lyrics that warm the soul.
Ranger Champ and brother Keith Zumbrun backup a young volunteer to sing Smokey The Bear.
