Kids Recording Kids is KMFA’s week-long summer radio camp for rising eighth and ninth graders. Camp participants have the opportunity to create radio spots, record live performances and conduct interviews with local, young musicians. KMFA created this program in 2011 in order to expand community outreach. The camp is made possible through a recurring grant from the Austin Optimist Club. In 2017, Kids Recording Kids took place from June 19 – 23.
In 2017, KMFA partnered with Mother Falcon Music Lab, a collaborative songwriting camp based in Austin, TX. During the week, Kids Recording Kids campers had the opportunity to interview and record Mother Falcon Music Lab campers, as well as a young classical vocalist. At the end of the week, campers produced their own radio show, the Kids Recording Kids Showcase, which was broadcast on air in September 2017.
Over the course of the week, Kids Recording Kids campers learn:
-on-air speaking techniques
-live recording skills
-radio interviewing skills
-editing and audio production techniques
In 2017, the camp was lead by Brian Satterwhite and Judlyne Gibson, hosts of KMFA’s popular Film Score Focus and Staccato programs, respectively. Campers also received recording and editing instruction from Production Manager and host Jeffrey Blair, interview techniques from Midday Oasis host Dianne Donovan, and voice coaching from Anthony McSpadden, KMFA’s Broadcasting & Content Director.
In addition to providing these youngsters with communications skills, the program provides team-building experience as the campers work together to create their own broadcast showcase. The camp also fosters an appreciation for the value and power of public radio and classical music, helping to build future generations of supporters for these important resources.