History
In a world where girls, women, transgender, and gender non-conforming individuals often face threats to their confidence and safety, we create a safe, affirming space where creativity thrives, diversity is celebrated, and every voice matters. Campers learn—through hands-on experience—that they are capable of extraordinary things. As we often say: If you can learn an instrument, form a band with four people you just met, write a song, and perform it after just one week, you can do anything. We emphasize collaboration, mutual support, and actively challenge stereotypes like “mean girl” culture. Because women, transgender, and gender non-conforming musicians remain underrepresented—especially on instruments like drums, bass, and electric guitar—our work strengthens both our campers and the broader music community.
Founded in 2010 with just 32 campers, our program quickly grew to three camps each summer, serving an average of 150 campers annually. Over time, we expanded our offerings to include an Advanced Camp for older campers; instruction in ukulele and violin; and workshops in mindfulness, movement, and stage presence as well as a Club DJ program. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, we successfully pivoted to virtual camps, and in 2021 we returned to in-person programming with smaller, safety-focused sessions
Our program design is simple and intentional: we empower campers with the tools and confidence to succeed on stage and beyond. Each day includes instrument instruction, songwriting, band rehearsal, and creative breakout sessions. With a low staff-to-camper ratio—1–2 band coaches for every band of 4–5 campers—participants receive individualized guidance in a supportive environment. Campers are encouraged to be bold, loud, and to lift one another up.
In addition to Band Coaches and Instrument Instructors, our staff includes specialized roles such as a Gear Manager (to ensure instruments and PA systems are performance-ready) and a Girl Power Coach (staffer with a background in education and child psychology, ensuring both musical and social-emotional needs are met). Our Board of Directors oversees the Executive and Music Directors who run the day-too-day operations.
We are also proud to provide paid opportunities for women and gender non-conforming musicians. Many staff members have built lasting careers as educators, performers, and studio musicians through connections made here. We intentionally recruit a diverse staff so campers see firsthand that powerful music communities are built through collaboration across identities.
Accessibility is central to our mission. We welcome campers regardless of ability to pay and actively reach out to underserved communities through schools and youth organizations. We provide transportation support and free childcare for staff.
At its heart, our work is about more than music. It’s about confidence, community, and belonging. When campers leave our program, they don’t just take home a song—they carry the knowledge that their voice matters, their ideas are powerful, and they deserve space in any room they enter. That impact lasts far beyond the stage.
