Philly’s first all-girl rock camp kicked off this past week, bringing in a new revolution of girl-driven initiatives. Taking the lead from Portland and Brooklyn’s Girls Rock Camp, Philly’s camp is sure to grow into a staple for young guitar sliding, afro punk, Chuck Taylor wearing, high hat tapping teens for many summers to come!

Located on the tucked away campus of Girard College (who graciously gave the use of their space in-kind as long as a few scholarships were set aside for girls at Girard), 20 girls, half of whom were given scholarships, filled a small auditorium for the Morning Assembly. I walked in on a skit of the “how to’s” in dealing with the press. I being the only “press,” sat down and took it all in. I cooed with excitement, as if I too was about to embark on a rock ‘n’ roll summer fling that would surely shape my life going forward. I smiled as they eagerly walked off with their counselors, leading them to their perspective instrument practice spaces.

I checked in with Beth Warshaw, Girls Rock Philly creator and director. She was fresh from acting in the skit, giving fake photo op poses, and responding to the operative question “ How is it being a girl?” I was curious how all the girls got here, and Beth said the word was put out in newspaper editorials, event listings, and word of mouth. A few of the girls knew each other, but most are bound into new friendships and collaborations.

On the first day the girls filled out a kind of compatibility questionnaire. They could answer what kind of music they like, and what kind of band they would like to be in, and if there is anyone they would like to play with. From that, five bands were formed! Each day instruments are practiced, and there are workshops that cover band basics; topics include: band art, effects and pedals, broadcasting, setup and sound check. In the afternoons the bands practice, prepping for their highly anticipated showcase this Saturday, ending their week long camp with a performance.

I stayed in the auditorium for a brief singing sessions, then scooted around the hallways to check out instrument practice. I viewed drum class from the window of the door, then found Guitar 1. Three girls sat tuning their guitars. They perked up when I entered the room, a young spritely girl, with a pink sweep of dyed hair asked, “Are you press?” I said yes, and she postured herself, posing with her tiny guitar. They talked amongst themselves while their teacher got snacks and amps ready. I was impressed with the girls’ tenacity and passion for learning their instruments and know that this Saturday is sure to be a treat!

For more information about Girls Rock Philly check out
www.girlsrockphilly.org