Marysville Parks and Recreation stages 'rock band camp'

MARYSVILLE — The city of Marysville Parks and Recreation Department recently completed its first round of summer "rock band camp," but program coordinators reminded the public that another round of the program is coming up in August.

Rosie Cooper taught the rock band camp in the Jennings Park barn from 1-3 p.m. July 21-23, and she looks forward to doing it again Aug. 18-20, but she hopes to see more kids during the next round.

"We had three students for this session," said Cooper, a substitute teacher in Marysville and Everett, with a master's in music education. "We can take up to 15. It's better when you have more kids involved."

The program is intended to teach children ages 10-15 various aspects of performing in a band, from drums and keyboards to vocals and guitars. Cooper starts with the simplest of steps, by helping everyone learn various beats, and progresses to choosing three to four songs that she and her students can agree on.

"They're mostly from the '60s, '70s and '80s," Cooper said. "They're a bit easier to pick up than the songs of today."

Although the program already has its own microphones, keyboards and drum set, it's reliant upon its student members to supply their own guitars. By the end of their three days of rehearsal, Cooper and her students perform for an audience, even if it's just a small one.

The summer "rock band camp" costs $100, and you can call 360-363-8400 for more information.

Contact Marysville Globe Reporter Kirk Boxleitner at kboxleitner@marysvilleglobe.com or 360-659-1300 Ext. 5052.

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