What is Rock Camp?
Willie Mae Rock Camp for Girls is a one-week summer day camp. Campers learn how to play musical instruments, write songs, perform their own music, do workshops, make band t-shirts, buttons, and costumes, and generally rock out.

What happens at a typical day at camp?
Every day, campers go to instrument classes (guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, vocals, or DJ/turntables) and workshops on different topics, from songwriting to poster-making. At lunchtime, there are performances by visiting bands and artists. On the first day, campers form bands, and the bands have practice time every afternoon. During band practice, the band members work together to write a song and practice playing together. The day ends with a brief wrap-up assembly. At the end of the week, the bands perform at a special showcase concert. See a sample schedule.

Is rock n' roll the only kind of music you do at camp?
No! We call it "rock camp" because we think girls rock! Camp is a place for all kinds of music, from types that exist already -- like hip hop, punk rock, and salsa - to any kind you want to invent.

Do I have to bring my own instrument? Do I have to have experience playing music?
No, camp provides the musical instruments. You can bring your own if you want, but you don't have to. And you don't need any experience - all you need is a desire to rock out!

There's more than one instrument I'm interested in. I can't decide which to pick!
First of all, you'll have a lot of chances to try different instruments at camp. We ask you to focus on one instrument for instruction for the week, but you don't have to play that instrument in your band - you can study guitar in your classes and play drums in your band (if your bandmates are cool with that.) Also, remember that camp is only one week long - you can start a band with other campers after camp, or with your friends from school, and play a completely different instrument.

What if I don't live in New York City?
You don't have to live in New York City to come to camp, but you do need to make your own plans for where to stay if you're from out of town. We try to match campers in need of housing with local families who express an interest in hosting a camper, but you need to make your own arrangements with potential host families.

Who are the teachers and counselors?
Camp classes and workshops are taught by women musicians who volunteer their time to help campers learn about playing music. Counselors are also there to lead activities and help campers.

How did camp get started?
Rock Camp for Girls started in Portland, Oregon in 2000. More information is available at www.girlsrockcamp.org.

Who is Willie Mae?
The program is named after Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton, an early blues and rock performer and songwriter who was one of the first women to play the music that came to be known as "rock n' roll."

Why is it just for girls?
A) Because it's fun. B) Because girls should be HEARD, not just seen. C) Because it's time for more girls and women to play instruments, write music, work the soundboard, direct music videos, DJ, run music companies, produce records, and do anything else they want to do in music. Or any other field, for that matter. D) Because making music makes you feel good about yourself. E) Because (insert your reason here).