Performance Coach & Stage Presence Instructor

Cassidy Linder is a dynamic performer, choreographer, and educator known for her electric stage presence and deep understanding of performer etiquette. With years of experience across musical theater, dance, and live production, Cassidy has helped countless artists connect authentically with audiences. At the heart of her work is the belief that performance is both an art and a practice—something that can be refined with intention, discipline, and joy. At camp, Cassidy leads students through workshops focused on stage presence, confidence, and professional conduct—empowering young musicians to own their spotlight with grace and authenticity. Her vibrant energy and no-nonsense insights make her an inspiring force on and off stage.

Songwriting & Music Production Mentor

Bernie Larsen is a seasoned multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and music producer whose career spans over four decades in the music industry. As a guitarist for legendary artists like David Lindley’s El Rayo-X, Jackson Browne, and Melissa Etheridge, Bernie has toured internationally and recorded with some of the most influential names in music also including Public Enemy and Rickie Lee Jones. Beyond performance, he’s a prolific producer and founder of Spinout Records, working with artists across genres to create authentic, soulful recordings. Bernie brings a wealth of real-world experience to the camp—guiding students through the craft of songwriting, arranging, and understanding the ins and outs of music production and the industry. His ability to foster creativity while grounding students in practical skills makes him an invaluable mentor for aspiring songwriters.

Branding & Social Media Instructor

Vanessa Ramirez is a rising powerhouse in the independent music scene, best known as a vocalist and multi-instrumentalist for the high-energy band Girl Dad. In addition to her musical talents, Vanessa is a content creator and social media icon, with a knack for building an engaged online community through humor, vulnerability, and magnetic creativity. With an education in sound engineering and multi-media design, she teaches artists how to translate their authentic voice into a powerful online presence. At camp, Vanessa offers hands-on guidance in self-branding, storytelling through content, and leveraging platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to grow an audience. Her honest, fun, and empowering approach helps students understand how to make their digital presence work for their artistic goals.

Guest Speaker

Nuvi Mehta is a Juilliard-trained violinist, conductor, and educator with a lifelong dedication to music. A former student of Szymon Goldberg and Otto-Werner Mueller, Mehta has held key roles with orchestras across the country and served as Artistic Director of the Ventura Music Festival since 2004. Known for his engaging presentations and deep commitment to music education, he continues to inspire audiences through performance, curation, and outreach.

Theme:Find Your Voice

10:00 – 10:30 (Cassidy)
Welcome Circle + Warm-Up Games

10:30 – 11:15 (Bernie)
Song Structure & Lyric Writing Demo

11:15 – 12:30 (B & C supervise)
Small Group Writing Sessions

1:15 – 2:00 (Bernie)
Melody Making: Finding Your Hook

2:00 – 2:45 (B & C supervise)
Solo or Duo Songwriting Time

2:45 – 3:30 (B & C supervise)
Share & Workshop Songs

3:30 – 4:00 (Cassidy)
Group Reflection + Prompts for Day 2

Theme: Build the Sound

10:00 – 10:15 (Cassidy)
Morning Circle + Listening Session

10:15 – 11:00 (Bernie)
Intro to Producing: What’s in a Track?

11:00 – 12:30 (Bernie)
Hands-On: Build a Beat or Loop

1:15 – 2:00 (Bernie)
Recording 101: Mic Technique, Layering, FX

2:00 – 3:15 (B & C supervise)
Create a Group Demo or Continue Song from Day 1

3:15 – 4:00 (B & C supervise)
Playback Party + Performance Prep Discussion

Theme: Own the Stage

10:00 – 10:30 (Cassidy)
Vocal/Body Warm-Ups + Movement Game

10:30 – 11:15 (Cassidy)
Stage Presence Workshop

11:15 – 12:30 (B & C supervise)
Rehearsal Time (Solo or Group)

1:15 – 2:15 (Bernie)
Mic Technique, Setup, and Blocking

2:15 – 3:30 (B & C supervise)
Mock Showcase: Run-Throughs with Feedback

3:30 – 4:00 (B & C supervise)
Peer Notes & Performer Mindset Tips

Theme: Share Your Story

10:00 – 10:30 (Bernie)
Artist Identity Workshop

10:30 – 11:15 (Vanessa)
Social Media for Musicians

11:15 – 12:30 (Vanessa)
Create a Promo (Posters, Bios, Teasers)

1:15 – 2:15 (B, V & C supervise)
Promo Filming/Editing Stations

2:15 – 3:15 (Vanessa, Bernie)
Guest Industry Q&A or Panel

3:15 – 4:00 (B & C supervise)
Final Showcase Rehearsal & Tech Check

Theme: Step Into the Spotlight

10:00 – 10:45 (B & C supervise)
Morning Circle + Final Rehearsals

10:45 – 12:30 (Bernie)
Soundcheck & Tech Setup

1:15 – 2:45 (B & C supervise)
Final Details from the Week

2:45 – 3:15 (B & C supervise)
Final Performance (Family & Friends Invited!)

3:15 – 4:00 (B & C supervise)
Celebration, Certificates & Closing Reflection Circle