Each camp session begins on a Monday. Campers are grouped into bands, based upon skill level, the wishes of friends to play together, and the type of music each person enjoys. The faculty helps the bands choose the music – usually four to six songs – they wish to perform on Friday. With our limit of 24 campers per session, this builds four or five bands per session.

Established bands registering for camp will have a pre-camp meeting with the faculty to determine the scope of work they wish to accomplish during their week. Sometimes this means helping them prepare for studio recording. Often they wish assistance in writing or polishing original songs. Occasionally they wish to stretch musically outside of their "comfort zone."

The days are set up for practice, with faculty rotating between the various bands. Campers needing extra individual time are helped in a separate room by one of the faculty. By Tuesdays the afternoon jams begin, where bands get up and play what they have been working on. This has become one of the most popular features of the camp sessions. Faculty join in, too.

During the week, classes in guitar, drum and amp maintenance are given by professionals from the Atlanta area. In addition, as camp is held at Avatar Studios – a professional band practice facility – campers often are treated to short performances by notable local and national bands who are rehearsing there. Earl Klugh has played, as has the Mike Lowry band, and 23 Jinx.

The undisputed highlight of Chicago Joe’s Rock ‘n Blues Camp is the Friday evening concert. Each concert has been memorable, and the enthusiasm and excitement from the audience always surprises and delights the bands, who play an inspired program, often dressed in very creative ways!