Rock Camp took over magical Iceland - more to come next autumn

Rock Camp held its first-ever international music camp in the magical and breathtaking setting of Iceland, in the town of Egilsstaðir, during the third week of March. The trip was organized with support from the Finnish National Agency for Education and the EU’s Erasmus+ program.

Rock Camp coaches Kari Olli (Pressure Points, Thyrargo), Vesa Ranta (Sentenced, Cemetery Skyline), Mika Lammassaari (Mors Subita), Lauri Tuohimaa (For My Pain…, Charon), along with the organization’s primus motor Satu Haveri, led the camp for over 20 enthusiastic Icelandic young participants. The program included group jam sessions as well as small-group instruction in guitar and vocals.

– We discussed about what it’s like to be in a band and what playing together and performing really involve. We covered the basics of recording and working in a recording studio, and also explored instrument anatomy, setup, and maintenance. We had great conversations with the young people about music and life in general. We realized once again that music is a universal language and a powerful way to form new friendships. We also emphasized the importance of inclusion and creating a safe space where everyone can be themselves, says Kari Olli, one of the Rock Camp coaches.

– The group had very diverse musical backgrounds. A couple of them were part of almost fully formed bands with already some live performance experience, some were interested in starting playing in a band, and others preferred practicing on their own, Olli adds.

As in camps held in Rock Camp’s home country, Finland, the experience concluded with a final concert. The groups formed during the camp performed the songs they had been working on, and gained valuable experience playing together.

– It was amazing to see how many of the participants brought their own songs to perform. Our team also played a couple of cover songs, and the positive, enthusiastic atmosphere carried through to the very end. It was an incredible trip. Great people, fantastic colleagues, and stunning nature all around us. I nearly had tears in my eyes a couple of times, Olli says with delight.

Rock Camp’s collaboration with Iceland began at a Nordic Thematic seminar held in Helsinki in November 2025, organized by the Ministry of Education and Culture, and the Finnish National Agency for Education.

– I met many youth sector professionals at the seminar, including Hildur Bergsdóttir from Iceland. We immediately clicked. Hildur said, ‘Satu, come to Iceland with your team’, Haveri recalls.

– There are no words to fully describe how grateful we are for this experience. Icelanders are incredibly kind and welcoming people. Their outlook on life, genuine care for others, and authenticity really stood out. We received wonderful feedback, and this collaboration will definitely continue, Haveri adds.

Indeed, Rock Camp will host a group of young people from Iceland next autumn.

– Plans for organizing the next camp in Iceland are already underway, Haveri says.

Text: Jaakko Silvast