GRC 2016

The third annual LV Girls Rock Camp was so much fun! Twenty-eight girls, ages 10-17, spent the week with us at Liberty High School in Bethlehem, PA. They learned how to play an instrument, formed a band, wrote an original song together and then performed at a *real concert*– all in just six days. Our campers also attended workshops based on this year’s theme: WE ARE THE STARS!

The first day of camp, Monday July 18th, featured an art workshop led by Kristen Brunell, a workshop about nature led by Ann Maini and a lunchtime performance by Nalu. The campers also attended their first instrument lesson and had their first band practice! On Tuesday, Jaime K. came to teach the girls how to make zines, Molly Samuelson helped each band create a logo and Brenna Swanger performed for us at lunch. Wednesday’s workshops were Activism 101, led by Jude-Laure Denis, and Stars Who Didn’t Get to Shine, led by Dierdre Johnson. She did double duty and performed spoken word for us at lunch. And, Erin Gallagher took official band photos in the afternoon! The next day, Liz Bradbury led a workshop focused on the acceptance of individuals in the LGBTQ community, Kate Santee and Molly helped the girls screen print their own band shirts (with materials donated by Lehigh Valley Apparel Creations) and Seer played for us at lunch. As usual, Friday was bittersweet. The last workshop of the week was self-defense, led by Jill Gosztonyi, and the rest of the day was spent getting ready for the showcase. Throughout the week were other fun activities including a scream circle, open mic, countless dance parties and SO MUCH MORE!

Our program concluded with the showcase on Saturday July 23rd at Diamond Theatre. “We Are the Stars” featured seven bands each playing their original song in front of their  family, friends and future fans. The show was so good!!! All of the bands were fantastic and Nicole Hart was the perfect MC.

We would like to thank all of our wonderful sponsors, our incredible volunteers (many took off an entire week of work to be with us) and each of the inspiring girls who attended camp. You all help to make this possible! And for that, we are immensely grateful. <3!!!