RockEd hosts a semester-long rock band camp and various summer camps in Northwest Arkansas for students ages 8-16. Our aim is to teach young musicians fundamental skills one-on-one while forming the next generation of bands across NWA. Whether beginners or longtime musicians, every student learns the foundations of songwriting, intricacies of their instrument, and skills to perform. Students are grouped into bands based on age and skill level, and learn how to creatively work together throughout the program. Every semester and summer camp culminates in a performance for friends and family to showcase their work and the opportunity to record and release their original songs. Retelling Rock ‘N Roll “Herstory” from a diverse perspective is an integral piece of our curriculum, so students learn cover songs by iconic women artists and participate in artist of the month presentations. We prioritize remaining an accessible, low-cost program, with a focus on individualized learning strategies. This includes providing instruments to take home when students would not otherwise have access and the goal to offer need-based scholarships as soon as possible. 

 

RockEd was founded by two college students, Milcah Hulen-Posnak and Breanna McArdle, and local music teacher, Jori Costello. All three of them are active performing musicians in queer, female-fronted bands. Costello is in her sixties, while Hulen-Posnak and McArdle are still under the age of twenty-one. By hiring college-aged teachers, we are able to promote life mentorship and role modeling for our students, while leaning on the decades long experience of Costello. 

 

RockEd partners with local nonprofits and businesses including Ozark Folkways' Folk School of Fayetteville, the Teen Action and Support Center, and The Hangout All Ages Music Venue to offer accessible programming across NWA. 

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More information on our individual programs including semester RockEd, Girl Power Rock summer camp, and Kids Rock summer camp can be found in the menu bar.