"You want your kid to be passionate about something, whether it be sports, scouts, dance or whatever. School of Rock does this for my son. We have discovered a talent we didn't know he had. My son would live at School of Rock if he could. We've already recommended the program to several friends."
Dtown Magazine
Doylestown School of Rock - spotlight
By Scott Holloway
Photos by Wendy McCardle
Once upon a time, budding musicians would settle on an instrument; immerse themselves in the study of harmony, melody and technique; and hit the road for weeks, months or maybe years at a clip to make a living or find stardom. But as one man who famously walked that tried-and-true path once sang, “The times they are-a-changin.’” But whether we’re talking a foregone era or debating the impact of the digital revolution, musical aspirations remain a constant. And Doylestown’s School of Rock is here to help make those dreams a reality.
While the school has been offering instruction and putting on shows since opening their doors in 2009, its organizers have recently expanded their offerings to current students and area performers. Beginning this fall, the School of Rock will offer Band Coaching Sessions, an opportunity for new or established groups to educate themselves beyond mere jam sessions. “The program will cover sound development, demo recording, songwriting and business strategy, including how to book shows at area venues,” says Beca Dunst, the school’s general manager. “Instructors will provide feedback, tips and ideas on how to improve the bands’ showmanship and overall musical presentation.”
And while performance is the true measuring stick for any musician, it’s only half the equation. No matter how great your sound, it must translate on record. “We’re also unveiling our new recording studio, which will be available to the school’s tuition students,” Dunst says. “It’s an opportunity to learn the art of sound recording using state-of-the-art digital gear and equipment. Students will replicate the recording, mixing, and production of a classic rock album. This fall, students will begin working on Pink Floyd's Dark Side Of The Moon, studying and deconstructing then recording, rebuilding, rerecording, remixing and reproducing it with their own performances. Each season will feature a new album.”
Autumn will also bring another of the School of Rock’s trademarks: fun. Teaming with the Philadelphia and Princeton locations, students will perform the music from the Rocky Horror Picture Show, dressing as their favorite characters, as well. Dunst says the event should be a raucous, interactive rock n’ roll party for the performers as well as the audience.
