Rock 101

ROCK 101

• What is it? 
  • This program is designed to teach beginner students, ages 8-11, the fundamentals of their instrument and how to play in a band or group setting. There are no musical prerequisites and complete beginners are encouraged to participate. The behavioral prerequisite for this program is that the student is mature enough to participate in the 90 minute weekly rehearsal and 45 minute lesson independently. In addition to musical instruction, a successful Rock 101 program provides training in rehearsal etiquette and the beginnings of stagecraft. This program allows students to progress at their own speed in a low-stakes, nurturing, and fun environment.
• What songs do students play?
  • This group will play a select few songs and they will likely not change throughout their duration in the program. These select few songs include important concepts that should teach the student the fundamentals of their instrument and help them to meet the graduation requirements that will eventually prepare them for a higher skill level.
• How does a student graduate out of the Rock 101 program?
  • Students will graduate when they can operate their instrument beyond the graduation requirements independently, practice at home using the Method App, play the Rock 101 songs with their group, socialize respectfully, have consistent attendance, etc.
  • Alone, playing all the Rock 101 songs proficiently does not necessarily mean the student is ready for the Performance Program. 
• Are the Rock 101 songs the only songs the students will play?
  • Some students will quickly learn the select few Rock 101 songs, but may not yet be ready to graduate to the Performance Program due to various reasons. If the student is getting bored of playing the same songs at rehearsals and their lessons, figure out what they enjoy playing and feel free to work on concepts within those songs in their lessons to keep them engaged. They don’t ONLY have to learn the Rock 101 songs; but we do want the students to be prepared for rehearsal.
• Recognize what may be preventing them from graduating, and get creative to help get them there. Bring your concerns to the attention of their Instructor, Rehearsal Director, or the Music Director.

Reminders:

• Not every student will learn or progress in the same amount of time.
• There will consistently be a circulation of new students in and out of Rock 101, not all students will know all songs.
• Students are encouraged to participate in rehearsals even if they do not know any songs - show them parts, have them observe, keep tempo, and use the cowbell or tambourine, etc.