If you’ve ever dreamed of standing on stage with a guitar in hand, belting out your favorite song into a microphone, or finally figuring out what all those knobs on an amp actually do, your chance is coming this summer in Williston. The Williston Music Intensive is turning up the volume for its fourth annual workshop, and this year’s event promises to be the biggest and loudest yet—in the best way possible.

Mix 95.1 logo
Get our free mobile app
Williston Music Intensive Group
Williston Music Intensive Group

After-Work Jam Sessions And Rockstar Training Come To Williston This July

From July 20–24, aspiring rock stars, seasoned musicians, and even those who just sing in the shower will gather for a five-day rock and pop workshop designed for musicians and singers ages high school and up. And unlike some daytime camps that require participants to choose between music and adult responsibilities, this workshop begins after 5 p.m. each evening, making it ideal for working adults who still want to chase their musical dreams after punching out for the day.

This year’s expanded format adds two extra days, more breakout sessions, bonus Q&As, and plenty of time to jam with fellow musicians. Participants will rehearse in one of three bands—rock, pop, or acoustic soul—while learning from experienced instructors and visiting professionals with impressive résumés. Past instructors have worked alongside artists like Jason Aldean, Gavin DeGraw, Kanye West, BTS, and Mariah Carey. So yes, there’s a decent chance someone at this workshop has seen backstage catering more impressive than your refrigerator.

Read More: Historic 100th Band Day In Williston North Dakota Looking For Old Photos And Memories

Alma Cook
Alma Cook Facebook Page
Alma Cook
Alma Cook

Local Musicians Helping Western North Dakota Find Its Sound

Leading the workshop is local singer-songwriter Alma Cook alongside voice instructor Emily Black-Driscoll and additional guest musicians. Together, they aim to help build confidence, improve skills, and continue growing a thriving local music scene in western North Dakota.

Alma Cook
Alma Cook
Alma Cook
Alma Cook (pictured: instructor Joshua Foster with Josey Nickles)

The Final Concert Might Feature A Few Long-Awaited Guitar Solos

The week wraps up with a live concert performance open to the public, giving participants a chance to show off what they’ve learned—and possibly unleash a guitar solo they’ve been secretly practicing since middle school.

Alma Cook
Alma Cook
Alma Cook
Photo credit Alma Cook (pictured: instructor Alec Lehrman)

Registration Is Encouraged

Registration is $45, or $35 with the EARLYBIRD code before June 1. Sessions will take place at Williston State College and New Hope Church, with exact schedules shared privately with participants. You can get more details or register here.

Alma Cook
Alma Cook
Alma Cook
Alma Cook

The workshop is supported by Williston API, the event’s first confirmed sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available for organizations looking to support arts and quality of life in the Bakken.

LOOK: 25 Everyday Objects From the 1980s You Totally Forgot About

From kitchen gadgets to clunky electronics and classroom staples, the 1980s were packed with unforgettable everyday objects. Scroll through and see how many of these totally normal ’80s staples you remember.

Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz

LOOK: See the Most Famous Musician Born the Same Year As You

Stacker identified musicians born in every year from 1920 to 2003 and determined the most famous born the same year as you.

Gallery Credit: Stacker