As early as next week, from Thursday, August 14, until Sunday, August 17, 2025, the peaceful atmosphere of Jasenovac will once again be permeated with the authentic sound of the blues. The eleventh edition of the International Kids Blues Camp is taking place, an event that over the past decade has become synonymous with top-tier music education, creative socializing, and an unforgettable summer experience for children and young people. This unique event, which rightly bears the epithet of one of the most important music-pedagogical projects in the region, is once again opening its doors to all young music lovers, regardless of their previous experience.

What makes this camp special is its fundamental philosophy – creating a stimulating environment where the love for music and knowledge are passed on directly, through interaction with top professional musicians. Camp participants, children and teenagers, get the opportunity to learn from mentors who are themselves active participants in the regional and international blues and rock scene. These are not just lectures; it is a complete immersion into the world of music, where theory is immediately applied in practice, and every note gains its meaning through making music together.

Intensive workshops as the heart of the camp

The central part of the program consists of intensive daily workshops, carefully designed to provide participants with concrete and applicable knowledge. The work takes place in smaller groups, divided by instruments – guitar, bass guitar, drums, harmonica, and vocals. This approach allows mentors to dedicate themselves to each participant individually, adjusting the pace and content to their abilities and interests. Beginners will be introduced to the basics of their instruments, proper posture, basic techniques, and the first blues scales. On the other hand, more advanced participants will have the opportunity to perfect their skills, delve deeper into the world of improvisation, explore more complex harmonic progressions, and learn the secrets of the trade that are rarely found in textbooks. It is precisely this opportunity to learn through direct contact and playing with experienced musicians that makes the stay in Jasenovac an invaluable experience.

The mentor team, composed of seasoned names from the music scene, is crucial to the camp's success. Their passion for the blues and pedagogical talent create an atmosphere where young musicians feel free to ask questions, experiment, and make mistakes without fear. Learning is not just about technique; mentors also convey the spirit of the blues, its history, and emotional depth, teaching participants how to tell their story through music.

More than a music school: Creating a community

The International Kids Blues Camp goes beyond the scope of traditional music education. It is a place where friendships are born and a sense of community is created. Participants not only learn to play, but also learn to listen to each other, cooperate, and function as a band. One of the most exciting parts of the camp is the formation of bands from the participants themselves. Under the watchful eye of their mentors, these newly formed bands prepare joint performances over the four days, going through the entire process – from choosing songs and arranging them to rehearsing and preparing for the performance. This teamwork fosters creativity, responsibility, and develops key social skills.

The days at the camp are filled with the sounds of music, but the evenings bring a special magic. After the intensive workshops, evening concerts and "jam sessions" are organized where the mentors take the stage. These performances are not just for entertainment, but also a live lesson in music. Participants have the opportunity to see their teachers in their natural element, feel the energy of a live gig, and experience the power of the blues firsthand. It often happens that during these informal sessions, the bravest participants join the mentors on stage, creating unique and unforgettable musical moments. This synergy of experience and youthful enthusiasm is the essence of what makes this event in Jasenovac so special.

The significance of the blues and its importance for the local community

The choice of blues as the musical foundation of the camp is not accidental. As the root of many modern musical genres, from jazz and rock'n'roll to soul and R&B, the blues provides a perfect basis for learning music theory, improvisation, and expression. Its relatively simple structure allows beginners to quickly get involved in playing, while its emotional depth and endless possibilities for improvisation present a challenge even for the most skilled musicians. Learning the blues is, in fact, learning a musical language that is universal and understood all over the world.

Holding such an event is of exceptional importance for Jasenovac itself and the entire region. Every year, the camp attracts participants and visitors from all over Croatia and neighboring countries, turning this place into a vibrant center of musical culture for four days. The event enriches the cultural offerings, promotes tourism, and puts Jasenovac on the map of must-visit summer destinations for music lovers. Locals and visitors have the opportunity to enjoy top-notch evening concerts for free, which further contributes to a positive and open atmosphere.

The grand finale and an invitation to all

The culmination of the four-day musical gathering is traditionally the final concert of the participants, which will be held on Sunday, August 17. At this concert, the bands formed by the camp participants take to the main stage to show the audience everything they have learned. This performance is the crown of their efforts, a moment of pride and celebration of newly acquired skills and friendships. Seeing young musicians confidently command the stage, playing side by side with their mentors, is a sight that best summarizes the success and purpose of this project.

The International Kids Blues Camp in Jasenovac is not just an event, but a movement that ensures the flame of the blues continues to burn and be passed on to new generations. Everyone interested, whether as participants or as an audience, is invited to join this unique musical celebration. The program is open to everyone, and the evening concerts are an opportunity for all visitors to feel a piece of the magical atmosphere that will fill Jasenovac next week.