What makes Rock Academy great!

Simply put - we want our Rock Academy participants to experience the joy and comradery of playing in a band as they receive mentoring from professional experienced musicians and music educators.

Rock Academy emphasizes working with others in a respectful and safe environment, appreciation of all styles of music, and musicianship. Students develop a sense of responsibility to their band mates, learn songs in a variety of rock genres, and are encouraged to take musical risks - such as playing alternate parts or improvising.

As part of maintaining a safe and respectful environment, here are some key points:

• Rock Academy is not ‘Little League with a bad coach’. It is not just the ‘best players’ who get stage time while others warm the bench. Every student, no matter their level or ability, receives the opportunity for equal play.
• Self-motivation and hard work are encouraged and rewarded. Musicians who prepare at home or in private lessons for Rock Academy songs are more likely to be able to act on the opportunity for equal play.
• No song is sacred. Any song brought to Rock Academy by a student is open for any other student to play on.
• No group of musicians is sacred. Rock Academy is not a place to bring your own band and expect to play with just them. All students in a class rotate stage time with each other.
• Students are encouraged to work together and communicate their needs, wants, desires, frustrations, and preferences with other students. Everyone has the opportunity to be heard, and is expected to hear and respect what others say.
• It’s about the band, not the individual. While students are treated and respected as individuals, when on stage, it is the overall band sound that is important. Students learn to listen to each other and adjust their volume and dynamics as to allow for a pleasing overall sound. When it’s time to solo, an individual should shine – and the band mates should let the soloist shine. But 95% of any song is about the blending of and interaction between instruments. While not Little League, Rock Academy is definitely a team sport.

You know what? We'll just let Anne (our fearless director) speak...

This program is so great for kids. It teaches leadership skills, social skills, and communication skills all through playing music. It motivates students that may already be in private lessons who never get a chance to practice what they learn in a live group setting. It's a program that builds confidence and instills pride. What a great opportunity for kids, to have the chance to perform live on stage at some of the best music venues in the country. To actually showcase their skills and be around others that share their passion for playing and performing, and to share their accomplishments with family and friends.

We believe every child should get the chance to pursue their dream. Here at the Rock Academy, we make rock and roll dreams come true.

Philosophy