This year’s We Rock Camp (formerly Girls Rock Camp), organized by local nonprofit Girls Rock Athens, took place July 29–Aug. 2. During the camp, musically inclined youth ages 9–15 got a crash course in writing, playing and performing while also attending workshops designed to spark independence and boost self-esteem. The week culminated in a public concert at Hendershot’s on Aug. 3. Flagpole photographer Whitley Carpenter was on hand to document the magic as it unfolded. To get involved with Girls Rock Athens, donate or find information on signing up for its camps, visit girlsrockathensga.org.

Instructor Emily Burke and camper Melina Delavega practice singing.

Campers Claire Murty and Alice McNiff mix music together. Murty’s chosen DJ name is C-Money, while McNiff’s is DJ Wonderland.

Penelope Anderson, 14, shows 9-year-old Maypop Wren how to finger a B chord.

Camper Mabel Fezekas practices guitar with her band.

Camper Eudora Dawson props her elbows on top of her keyboard. “I wanted to play drums, but they were out, so I switched to piano, and I think I like it more,” she says.

Excited campers take the stage at Hendershot’s.

Campers perform at the Hendershot’s finale.

Campers and instructors wind down after another successful We Rock Camp week.

Proud parents and supporters watch as the kids show off their newly learned skills.
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