There is a significant difference in the instruments boys and girls choose to play

When instruments are assigned at music schools in Denmark, boys typically choose band instruments and drums, while girls tend to gravitate towards singing or classical violin. JazzCamp for Girls aims to encourage more girls to play rhythm section instruments in a band, allowing them to experience the joy of being part of their local rhythmic music communities in Denmark.

Through four days of improvisation-focused instruction, JazzCamp for Girls creates a space for new communities, where girls can express themselves freely in a safe environment for musical creativity—an environment that inspires them to pursue more music in their free time.

JazzCamp for Girls is a groundbreaking initiative that offers girls the opportunity to explore jazz music in safe, supportive surroundings with a focus on community, empowerment, and creative expression. The project is a collaboration between music schools and professional jazz musicians. Camps are held in 11 cities across Denmark, and each concludes with a joint concert for families.

An international success

Since 2022, JazzCamp for Girls has evolved from a national to an international project and has now been carried out in several countries beyond Denmark, including the UK, Belgium, Turkey, Poland, Sweden, Germany, Canada, the Czech Republic, India, and Finland. Through shared transnational experiences and collaboration, the project has demonstrated that its model can be adapted to different music education contexts while maintaining its focus on increasing girls’ participation and representation in jazz music.