Blues music has roots than run all the way back to West African Tribal music, and it’s legacy has shaped the way we listen to music today. It really is a kind of blueprint for almost all contemporary forms of popular music, with it’s DNA running through pop, rock, country, hiphop and jazz. Blues Boot Camp is a highly interactive, three day work-shop for young people that explores this link.
It’s a two day, one evening event ran by industry professionals, dedicated to teaching the mechanics of blues and and how to apply it’s teachings to modern music, as well as the art and importance of self-expression.
Students can expect to work on performance, song writing, teamwork, business skills and social media. Most of all, though, it’s about playing music and working towards putting on a public show at the end of the third day!
Blues Boot Camp events have been running since 2009, the success of which is owed to the passion, and depth of knowledge of the events teachers. Past events have presented students with teachers that have a combined industry experience of over 200 years that they are eager to share and pass down to the next generation.
“The ability to express yourself in a positive and creative way can be difficult for young people today,” says event organiser Wayne Jury. “The pressure to perform academically has never been greater and an outlet for positive, creative self- expression is essential to balance the pressures of modern life. Whether it is through interacting with others in a creative way or finding an outlet for their creativity, Blues Boot Camp helps to discover the fun, joy and pleasure that music can bring.”
Blues Boot Camp will be held at the Potato Shed in Drysdale, on April 9, 10 & 11 and is available to students aged 15 to 25.
More information can be found via Blues Bootcamp’s facebook page, through trybooking.com, or event organiser Wayne Jury (call 0409829445 or email [email protected]).
This project is supported by the City of Greater Geelong through its Community Arts Grants Program.
Written by Liam McNally
