Form your band in March and perform together in May!
Perform live on stage at the Wharf!
Build community and express yourself!
Then look no further than Hat Band! Hat Band is a program where musicians are randomly selected to form bands, and over the course of 10-12 weeks, are to create a 10 minute set to play at a local DC venue.
This program centers Disabled-, female-, POC-, queer-, and trans folx* in a welcoming, no-pressure environment where creativity and community take center stage. And the best part? All proceeds go to Girls Rock! DC, funding music education for the next generation of rockstars.
Applications will open on February 15, 2026: join our email list to get notified!
When is Hat Band?
Applications will open on February 15, 2026 with acceptance letters going out in March. Musicians will then have until the show in May to work on their set.
How much does it cost?
Hat Band is completely free to participate in! However all participants are encouraged to donate to Girls Rock DC.
What is the registration process?
Applications will open on February 15, 2026.
Where is it?
Hat Band differs from our other programs in that it does not have a set location. Participants are encouraged to decide amongst themselves whether they would like to practice at their home rehearsal space, or book time at a DC area rehearsal space (7DrumCity, Crescendo Studios, etc.)
Our showcase concert will be in person at Pearl Street Warehouse in May 2026.
Who can participate in Hat Band?
Hat Band looks to center Disabled-, female-, POC-, queer-, and trans folx* in a welcoming, no-pressure environment where creativity and community take center stage. Whether you’re a complete beginner, or an experienced musician, Hat Band would love to have you!
Do I need to have musical experience?
Nope! We welcome participants of all experience levels, from “not musically inclined” to “sings in the shower” to “composes original rock operas”. The only requirement is a love of music!
I have another question!
Email us at hatbanddc@gmail.com and we’ll be happy to find you an answer!
Hat Band concert proceeds help support youth programming like Girls Rock! DC’s Youth Summer Camp.
We strive to create a Girls Rock! DC community that reflects the diverse identities and experiences of our youth and the broader DC community. We strongly encourage people of color, people who are queer, gender non-binary, and/or trans, and any folks who come from traditionally oppressed experiences to apply to be We Rock! Camp campers. Everyone deserves to rock!
NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY: Girls Rock! DC does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national and/or ethnic origin, marital status, sexual orientation, body type, physical ability, gender expression, or other individual identities in the administration of any of its educational programs, admissions policies, scholarships, and other Camp-related policies and programs, as well as volunteer policies and activities. All Camp activities will promote and maintain the personal and emotional safety of all campers and staff. We do not tolerate racism, homophobia, sexism, or other discriminatory behavior or expression.
