Illinois Hip Hop Camp

Sometimes it can be hard to find a space where people feel they can be authentically themselves. At Illinois Hip Hop Camp, this is the central focus.  

Each summer, Illinois Summer Youth Music at the University of Ilinois hosts the Illinois Hip Hop Camp. Founded in 2017, the camp was created to help fill the gap in music education, which often excludes hip hop as a musical tradition. Students spend a week building community with each other while learning from music educators and professionals how to produce beats, write lyrics, engage a crowd, and tap into their creative spirit. Campers also get to explore music as a possible career path and learn about industry practices from some of the best in the business.  

But here, the kids are the experts. UIUC professors, music educators, and music professionals come together to create a space that centers on each one of the camper's talents, experiences, and interests. Hip hop is an art form that embodies self-expression, and this camp provides a space where kids can build confidence, feel empowered and valued for who they are.  

At the end of the week, students perform their original songs at The Canopy Club in Urbana, IL for their family, friends, and the community.  

To learn more about Illinois Hip Hop Camp or to support a camp scholarship, click here.