July 15–19
Every year since 2014, one particularly slammin' summer camp gives girls, trans and nonbinary youngsters a venue to inspire their inner rock star. It's Girls Rock Camp (GRC), a week of workshops and music lessons leading up to a showcase at Zoellner Arts Center on the 20th of this month.
Counterbalancing the pretty princess prototype, Girls Rock is about being seen, heard and loud, building confidence in a group where campers can be themselves. “If a kid can learn how to play the guitar on a Monday and then play a show in front of a huge audience on the following Saturday,” says Executive Director Felicia Lockett, “they can do anything!”
Whether the kid's been blasting guitar riffs in your garage or doesn't really know what a bass is for, all levels are welcome to get in on the exploration of expression through music. It's a perfect climate for young people ages 10–17 to jam out in an encouraging environment, with band practice, open mics, visiting artists from local bands and at least one dance party over the course of the week.
Lockett and the organization's dedicated volunteers juggle logistics in a behind-the-scenes whirlwind during camp, with no regrets. “I get to do meaningful work and organize programs that are literally life-changing for our participants,” Lockett says.
Run by nonprofit organization Lehigh Valley Girls Rock, GRC is just one cymbal on the drum set. There's also Let's Rock Camp for adult women, trans and nonbinary folks, and The Band Factory, which matches up people looking to get a band together. Workshops and stand-alone classes will also be returning to LVGR's repertoire later this year. Young or old, check out LVGR to support girls' music or start a band of your own!
