The OYOUth Summer Music Camp serves youth ages 8–18 in San Marcos, intentionally welcoming participants of all abilities and backgrounds. The camp provides a safe, inclusive environment where every child is valued, supported, and encouraged to explore music as a means of self-expression, growth, and connection.
Campers engage in songwriting, instrumental instruction, singing, and collaborative music-making. These activities strengthen musical ability while also nurturing confidence, creativity, and teamwork. Arts and culture are central to the curriculum, with students introduced to diverse musical genres, traditions, and histories while being encouraged to draw from their own backgrounds and lived experiences. By bringing together youth of different abilities and perspectives, the camp fosters empathy, inclusion, and a true sense of belonging.
The program concludes with a public performance at the Wildflower Country Event Center in San Marcos, where participants share the original songs and collaborations they have created. This culminating event not only celebrates achievement but also highlights the value of diversity and inclusion in a visible, affirming way.
The need for this camp is significant. In 2025, OYOU served 24 youth, with 80% attending free of charge. Few affordable music camps exist in San Marcos, and even fewer are intentionally designed to integrate children of all abilities. By removing cost barriers and adapting instruction to meet diverse needs, OYOU ensures that every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive through music.
Impact is measured by the growth that participants experience during and after camp: improved musical skills, increased confidence, positive feedback from families, and the ability to collaborate effectively. Equally important is the lasting influence of the program—continued engagement with music, enhanced self-expression, and stronger connections within the community. Ultimately, the OYOUth Summer Music Camp succeeds when participants leave with new skills, greater confidence, and meaningful friendships built through the universal language of music.
Current OYOUth calendar of events and kid's OYOUth summer music camp!
"I’ve spent a lot of time working with Terri and Lloyd over the last few years and it has meant a lot to me. I’ve made friends and memories and of course, songs. Because of them I’ve gotten a lot better at expressing myself. The OYOU kids camps have taught me confidence as well as pride in my craft. In fact, for my high school letter jacket “Own Your Own Universe” is what I chose to put under my name on the back. That’s how much the idea means to me.” — Harper Claes (Age 13)
Come join the OYOUth Club and explore your creativity! Our ongoing music and creative arts program helps youth build confidence, develop their artistic endeavors, and foster leadership skills. We provide an inclusive, non-judgmental environment that encourages exploration of the creative arts.
We provide ongoing scholarships for most of our OYOUth workshops, events, and programs. Just contact us, state your need, and we will get back!