WAM opens applications for inaugural Girls Rock! WA camp

WAM (West Australian Music) has opened applications for the inaugural Girls Rock! WA camp, held in January.

It is open to participants aged 11 – 17 with any level of experience on guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, or vocals.

Girls Rock! Australia was inspired by the US program, a week-long day camp of instrumental instruction, band rehearsals, workshops, and fun activities designed to empower aspiring young female, transgender, and non-binary musicians.

The first Australian camp was held in Canberra in January 2016 to instant success.

It was followed by Brisbane in September 2016, Melbourne in January 2017 and Sydney in January 2018.

The WA camp will feature a range of expert-led workshops on topics such as performance skills, interviewing techniques, and managing creativity, alongside performances from local artists to keep campers motivated and inspired throughout the week.

Industry volunteers already confirmed include Fremantle folk singer Lucy Peach, Perth indie-rock singer Tanaya Harper, and RTRFM 92.1 breakfast presenter Taylah Strano.

It takes place at Leederville TAFE Music Industry Skills Department from January 14—18, with a showcase performance by all campers at Mojos Bar, North Fremantle, on Saturday, January 19.

Em Burrows, Girls Rock! WA coordinator and WAM audience development officer testifies to the success of the program.

“After attending the Girls Rock! Melbourne camp earlier this year I was absolutely blown away by the power of the camp to create a nurturing and inclusive space for everybody who attend,” Burrows explains.

“Campers build their confidence and skills and leave with a real sense of empowerment and community.

“The way in which volunteers from the local music industry join together to support the campers and offer them a really amazing experience is also profoundly moving and very cool!

“I’m so thrilled that WAM has embraced this program and enabled it to happen in WA.”

Information and applications at the official Girls Rock! WA website or contact WAM at hello@wam.org.au.