Boot camp is designed for students aged 12-25 years, with intermediate ability in any instrument and beginner to intermediate level for vocalists.

Blues Boot Camp founder and tutor Wayne Jury said the initiative was about much more than just the blues.

"Arguably the 'blues form' is the basis for all for styles of contemporary western music. Whether it is pop, rock, rap, hip-hop, jazz, soul, or funk, the roots are traced back to West African Tribal music".

Jury said Blues Boot Camp explores the link from blues music to the music of today.

Students are encouraged to explore freedom of expression, combining knowledge with emotion while gaining a basic understanding of the mechanics of blues and gospel forms and working in a team environment too!

He is grateful for the support provided by the tutoring team including Andrea Robertson and Buddy Knox, both professional artists with vast industry experience.

"We are all dedicated to sharing what we have learnt over our careers and developing the next generation of music makers."

Participants at this year's camp can expect to be challenged and have fun while learning musicianship, teamwork, and cooperation to achieve the final outcome of a public concert where family and friends can come along and enjoy.

Jury said expressing yourself in a positive and creative way in society helps us to deal with the frustrations of modern life.

"Blues Boot Camp aims to give students a window to the self-expression that music can provide them."

He said the camp was about enjoying music.

"It can happen through interacting with others in a creative way or finding an outlet for their creativity regardless of whether it's a career move or just for the sheer fun, joy, and pleasure that music can bring".

Blues Boot Camp will be held on Thursday, November 7 and Friday, November 8, culminating in the participants' concert as part of the 2019 Bendigo Blues and Roots Music Festival.

For more information on the Blues Boot Camp, visit www.bendigobluesandroots.com.au