On November 2nd-4th, Girls+ Rock Ottawa ran its annual flagship event, Rock Camp for Girls+, bringing together 13-17 year old participants. Girls+ Rock Ottawa is on a mission to diversify the music scene by encouraging girls, women, femmes, non-binary, two-spirit, and gender non-conforming folks to join in on a transformational weekend of collaboration and learning.

Participants sectioned off into four bands. Bands such as Pink Yeet and The Witches Bleu were named by drawing participant contributed nouns and adjectives from a hat. The group had two days to get to know each other and each band had about a day and a half to learn a cover song (and for some an entire instrument) from scratch.

On Sunday, November 4th, the four bands showcased their talent, performing “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac, “Teenage Fantasy” by Jorja Smith, “Closer” by Tegan and Sara and “Scars to Your Beautiful” by Alessia Cara. The skill and confidence from each musician struck the room. It is incredible what can be accomplished in such a short time with the proper support and encouragement.

Girls+ Rock Ottawa is completely volunteer run, with a solid team including Chair, Tiffanie Tri, Director of Communications, Emma Kenny, Director of Partnerships, Rachel Weldon and Director of Community Outreach, Amanda Lowe and many, many more. Participants are taught by professional musicians who volunteered their time to make this all possible.

Learn more about Girls+ Rock Ottawa’s programming and vision here.

Photo Credit: APT613