Kids who love music and songwriting are rocking out this summer at the Boise Rock School. Camp teachers are hosting week-long rock camps through August. Students get the chance to create a band, learn cover songs and write original tunes. North Junior High School freshman John Luce joined the songwriting camp because his band, Concrete Clouds, is looking to create original songs.

“The teachers have taught me the the methods that I should use to write songs,” Luce said. “My friends and I recently started a band and this camp is helping me understand how to write music.”

In 2008, Boise Rock School started with summer camps, before expanding into an after-school program. Managing director Ryan Peck said the school seeks to help students achieve musical excellence more quickly. Putting kids in a band setting can encourage essential life skills.

“The rock school is a place for kids that want to be creative and express themselves outside of school and through music,” Peck said. “It’s about bringing kids together to play music together. We don’t really do private lessons, that’s not our business or motivation.”

Luce is in his third day of the camp and has nearly completed his first song.

“Things are looking good for my band. After the camp is over I should have a song complete and we can figure out a jam,” Luce said.

The organization offers a free summer camp for refugees and at-risk kids on August 17-20. Nearly 20 spots are still available.

“We have this free camp for kids who have a lot of promise, but might have some barriers in front of them,” Peck said.

For more information about Boise Rock School summer camps and details about the free camp, click here.