There are still some spaces available in this year’s Music that Matters Summer Camp. The camp is for ages 11-18 and includes band class, songwriting, recording a song for a CD, music video, workshops, offsite events, and performance opportunities. Each session ends with a benefit concert that raises money for a charitable organization chosen by the students themselves. Plugged In provides a nurturing and supportive community to which young musicians feel a sense of belonging, an opportunity to express and be acknowledged for their musical interests and a chance to use their music to help others around the world. In addition to summer camp, Plugged In offers weekly ensemble band classes during the fall and spring, private lessons and songwriting workshops.

MTM runs from a unique nonprofit youth rock band program in Needham where young musicians of all levels and needs are welcome.

MTM runs from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday, and is offered in (2) two week sessions from July 9th – 20th and July 23rd – August 3rd. Students can sign up for one or both sessions. Late pick up is available. Information and online registration form is at www.pluggedinband.org/programs/summer-program/.

Founded in 2002, Plugged In now has over 150 students from all over Massachusetts. Some of the students experience emotional and learning difficulties, such as ADD, depression, and low-self-esteem and/or have special needs such as autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. In the loving and non-competitive atmosphere at Plugged In, all differences are transcended through a shared passion for music, the teamwork involved with using music to help others and an atmosphere of compassion and fun.

In addition to weekly ensemble band classes, private lessons, songwriting workshops, summer camp and community performances, five times a year Plugged In students perform in benefit concerts that raise money for causes and organizations chosen by the students themselves. Plugged In provides a nurturing and supportive community to which young musicians feel a sense of belonging, an opportunity to express and be acknowledged for their musical interests and a chance to use their music to help others around the world.