School of Rock CorneliusMain Number(980) 689-5257(980) 689-5257
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Contact Information, Hours and Basic Information for School of Rock Cornelius
About School of Rock Cornelius
At School of Rock Cornelius, we believe as much in the power of the band as we do in the thrill of a killer solo act. We bring our kids and the community of Cornelius together to create excellent performers who learn from cool, real life experiences in the world of music. Our performance-based approach amps up our students for serious fun and serious success.
Music in a team-based environment is today’s gateway to education, confidence, fun, friendship, and so much more. Visit School of Rock Cornelius today.
Contact Information
Hours of Operation
| Day of the Week | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday - Thursday | 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM |
| Friday | 1:00 PM - 8:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Programs
Performance
At School of Rock Cornelius, our Performance Program puts our students front-and-center on a real stage for real performances. Students get to show off their killer music skills while learning serious teamwork as they and their bandmates refine their abilities through some of rock and roll’s greatest hits.
Cornelius students will blow your mind with advanced performances chock-full of hits by famous artists such as Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Van Halen, The Rolling Stones, AC/DC, Frank Zappa, Queen, and many, many more! For our students, real performances breed real skill, and real fun.
All students in Cornelius’s Performance Program can expect:
• Weekly private music lessons on guitar, bass, keyboard, drums, and/or vocals
• Weekly band rehearsal to get students prepared for real shows
• The experience of performing on stage with their band at real venues
• Key learning in fundamental areas such as stage performance, harmonies, musicianship, and more
• Fun, music, and education wrapped into one all-inclusive experience!Rock 101
School of Rock Cornelius’s Rock 101 Program encourages fun and success for our younger students as they begin their journey. The days of traditional instruction with piles of sheet music are over. At School of Rock Cornelius, we believe that playing real music is the only path to proficiency and a true appreciation for music.
In Rock 101, students select one instrument to study, and we begin teaching fundamentals: scales, chords, notes, time signatures, and all the rest. Our unique approach to music instruction teaches our students vital fundamentals through songs they know and love, not rote memorization. With real musical context in a fun environment, we give all of our students the knowledge they need to really pursue their passion for music.
All students in Cornelius’s Rock 101 Program can expect:
• Weekly private music lessons on guitar, bass, keyboard, drums, and/or vocals
• Weekly group rehearsals to reinforce the fundamentals in a team environment
• A firm grasp of the basics of music theory and technique
• An understanding of what it means to play solo and in a group
• Real knowledge gained through real fun!AllStars
"Our top performers can audition for School of Rock Cornelius’s most prestigious honor: a spot in our AllStars program! School of Rock’s AllStars represent the absolute best of the best from School of Rock’s global network of schools and students. Equipped with incredible musical abilities and a serious talent for amazing teamwork, our AllStars have the skills and drive to grow into the next generation of musical greats.
Every summer, our AllStars embark on an authentic concert tour – complete with tour busses – for a one-of-a-kind experience. Our Cornelius musicians perform with All Star bands in multiple live shows across the country. Our AllStars have performed at Red Rocks, Lollapalooza, Hangout Music Fest, Namm, Gathering of the Vibes, and countless others. AllStars also get to share the stage and learn from experienced, larger-than-life legends like Alice Cooper, Eddie Vedder, and Slash – just to name a few. School of Rock’s AllStars program provides an opportunity unlike any other: to learn to rock the stage for real audiences.
All AllStars at School of Rock Cornelius can expect:
• Real-world performances where they can excel in their chosen medium: guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and/or vocals
• Killer jamming and collaboration with their band
• A summer full of cool, practical learning-on-the-go
• Development of advanced instrumental techniques
• A truly epic rock experience like no other!"Adult Program
School of Rock Cornelius is now enrolling for our Adult Performance Program, where adult students of all proficiency levels can explore and conquer the world of music. We get our students playing and learning at lightning-quick speeds through practical performance rather than run-of-the-mill music instruction programs. At School of Rock Cornelius, the thrill of the performance is just as important as learning the skill to rock.
Our adult students learn the fundamentals of music, including scales, chords, notes, progressions, and more, through some of the most iconic songs and sounds in music history. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of rock ‘n roll or a metal-loving head-banger at home in the mosh pit, our teachers know how to best connect your love for music with a passion for learning it.
All students in School of Rock Cornelius’s Adult Program can expect:
• Fast-paced instruction in one of our great musical offerings: guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and/or vocals
• Weekly private instruction catered to your goals and level of proficiency
• Rehearsals with others just like you to get ready for real shows at live music venues
• An understanding of music theory and technique fundamentals, learned through songs from your favorite music genre
• Fun, instruction, and a great progression of practical skills wrapped all into one!Rookies
School of Rock Cornelius’s Rookies Program is designed for first and second graders to provide a fun introduction to music fundamentals. Among other tools, we use proprietary setups for guitar, bass, drums and keyboard to provide a gateway to understanding music. The skills and passion for music that we teach our students gets them ready for Rock 101 and a lasting appreciation for music.
Our Cornelius Rookies learn the fundamental concepts of pitch, rhythm, form and dynamics with age-appropriate exercises, tools and games. We encourage our students to explore a variety of instruments and play styles so they can get familiar with all parts of the musical landscape; even the most incredible solo guitar players or drummers need to understand how the rest of the band works together.
All students in Cornelius’s Rookies Program can expect:
• Weekly group lessons using guitar, bass, keyboard and drums
• Exposure to essential fundamentals like music theory, pitch and rhythm
• A focus on teamwork and collaboration
• An understanding of what it means to play solo and in a group
• Fun combined with practical learning!
Cornelius students will blow your mind with advanced performances chock-full of hits by famous artists such as Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Van Halen, The Rolling Stones, AC/DC, Frank Zappa, Queen, and many, many more! For our students, real performances breed real skill, and real fun.
All students in Cornelius’s Performance Program can expect:
• Weekly private music lessons on guitar, bass, keyboard, drums, and/or vocals
• Weekly band rehearsal to get students prepared for real shows
• The experience of performing on stage with their band at real venues
• Key learning in fundamental areas such as stage performance, harmonies, musicianship, and more
• Fun, music, and education wrapped into one all-inclusive experience!
In Rock 101, students select one instrument to study, and we begin teaching fundamentals: scales, chords, notes, time signatures, and all the rest. Our unique approach to music instruction teaches our students vital fundamentals through songs they know and love, not rote memorization. With real musical context in a fun environment, we give all of our students the knowledge they need to really pursue their passion for music.
All students in Cornelius’s Rock 101 Program can expect:
• Weekly private music lessons on guitar, bass, keyboard, drums, and/or vocals
• Weekly group rehearsals to reinforce the fundamentals in a team environment
• A firm grasp of the basics of music theory and technique
• An understanding of what it means to play solo and in a group
• Real knowledge gained through real fun!
Every summer, our AllStars embark on an authentic concert tour – complete with tour busses – for a one-of-a-kind experience. Our Cornelius musicians perform with All Star bands in multiple live shows across the country. Our AllStars have performed at Red Rocks, Lollapalooza, Hangout Music Fest, Namm, Gathering of the Vibes, and countless others. AllStars also get to share the stage and learn from experienced, larger-than-life legends like Alice Cooper, Eddie Vedder, and Slash – just to name a few. School of Rock’s AllStars program provides an opportunity unlike any other: to learn to rock the stage for real audiences.
All AllStars at School of Rock Cornelius can expect:
• Real-world performances where they can excel in their chosen medium: guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and/or vocals
• Killer jamming and collaboration with their band
• A summer full of cool, practical learning-on-the-go
• Development of advanced instrumental techniques
• A truly epic rock experience like no other!"
Our adult students learn the fundamentals of music, including scales, chords, notes, progressions, and more, through some of the most iconic songs and sounds in music history. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of rock ‘n roll or a metal-loving head-banger at home in the mosh pit, our teachers know how to best connect your love for music with a passion for learning it.
All students in School of Rock Cornelius’s Adult Program can expect:
• Fast-paced instruction in one of our great musical offerings: guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and/or vocals
• Weekly private instruction catered to your goals and level of proficiency
• Rehearsals with others just like you to get ready for real shows at live music venues
• An understanding of music theory and technique fundamentals, learned through songs from your favorite music genre
• Fun, instruction, and a great progression of practical skills wrapped all into one!
Our Cornelius Rookies learn the fundamental concepts of pitch, rhythm, form and dynamics with age-appropriate exercises, tools and games. We encourage our students to explore a variety of instruments and play styles so they can get familiar with all parts of the musical landscape; even the most incredible solo guitar players or drummers need to understand how the rest of the band works together.
All students in Cornelius’s Rookies Program can expect:
• Weekly group lessons using guitar, bass, keyboard and drums
• Exposure to essential fundamentals like music theory, pitch and rhythm
• A focus on teamwork and collaboration
• An understanding of what it means to play solo and in a group
• Fun combined with practical learning!
Take a tour of School of Rock to see how our approach to music education teaches kids to rock their worlds.
Staff View All
Christian PearsonMusic DirectorChristian Pearson studied Music Theory, Theology, and Film at Evangel University from 2004 to 2009. Originally from the east coast, he was in the Springfield, Missouri music scene from 2009-2015, a...Christian Pearson studied Music Theory, Theology, and Film at Evangel University from 2004 to 2009. Originally from the east coast, he was in the Springfield, Missouri music scene from 2009-2015, and has played in multiple bands including Call Me Beta, Skylines and Cityscapes, and Ships of Adamant. Now in North Carolina, Christian is a composer who uses full orchestra and guitar in a classical expression of progressive metal; blending heavy riffs and shredding leads with layered, textured, and flowing melodies. He cites his greatest influences as Dream Theater, Devin Townsend, Opeth, Symphony X, Tchaikovsky, Vivaldi, Beethoven, Children of Bodom, Nevermore, Mudvayne, Pain of Salvation, Ayreon, Iron and Wine, Hans Zimmer, John Williams, Metallica, Iced Earth, Nightwish, Queen, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Frank Zappa, Circus Maximus, Polyphia, Periphery, Chon, and Weird Al Yankovic. He has a long list of passions, but at the top of the list is his respect and love for music.
Callie HuffmanFront of House ManagerCallie, a Cornelius local, grew up in the music and performance world. Her love for music started as a young child traveling with her mother who is a professional classical singer and voice teacher...Callie, a Cornelius local, grew up in the music and performance world. Her love for music started as a young child traveling with her mother who is a professional classical singer and voice teacher. She continued her love for music by playing different instruments, performing in musical theater at Northwest School of the Arts, and singing in choral and solo performances. Callie is now pursuing her music career locally and is performing in the Lake Norman and Charlotte area. Her biggest passion in music is songwriting. This year, Callie wrote and recorded her EP Unbridled with her music label, Platinum Vybe Records in Charlotte, NC.
Andrew AdamanyDrum InstructorBorn and raised in Southern California, Andrew's passion for drums began when he was 10 years old. Andrew began playing along to Beatles CDs. He started gigging in college at the University of San ...Born and raised in Southern California, Andrew's passion for drums began when he was 10 years old. Andrew began playing along to Beatles CDs. He started gigging in college at the University of San Diego, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in business while making weekend trips to Los Angeles and perform at The Whisky a Go Go, the Roxy, Viper Room, and other clubs on the Sunset Strip. He enrolled at Musicians Institute (M.I.) and received his Associates Degree in Drum Performance and a Certificate in Music Business. After graduation, Andrew went full-time with a band, touring every weekend and recording original music, while picking up side gigs and teaching substitute drum lessons during the week back in LA. In 2014, Andrew and his group moved to Nashville, TN, where they earned a residency at Honky Tonk Central on Lower Broadway. He performed covers for 4 non-stop hours 4 nights every weekend for over three years, booked weddings gigs, and taught private lessons to students as young as three years old. Andrew performs with drive, high energy and the same passion each individual song conveys. He subscribes the philosophy of drumming to serve the song and to play drums that will get people on their feet and dancing. He now resides in Charlotte, NC and is committed to developing new talented drummers!
Kenneth HarrisGuitar, Bass, Drums, and Keyboard InstructorKenneth L. Harris is a native of Statesville, NC and has been involved in music for over 30 years. He has a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Winston-Salem State University majoring in tr...Kenneth L. Harris is a native of Statesville, NC and has been involved in music for over 30 years. He has a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Winston-Salem State University majoring in trombone, and has also studied piano since the age of 8. He was the John Phillip Sousa Band Award recipient in high school and he also won the Director's Award. In college, he was chosen to participate in the Intercollegiate Music Association Band. Kenny is also a percussionist and has taught several different high schools throughout Rowan and Cabarrus Counties for over 13 years. He was also the band director of Salisbury High School in Rowan County and West Iredell High School in Statesville NC. He currently teaches piano, drums, guitar, bass guitar, and all brass instruments.
Sam NasifeGuitar/Bass InstructorSam grew up in South Jersey and played in numerous rock cover bands throughout high school. After graduating, he spent a semester at Berklee College of Music in Boston and then transferred to The U...Sam grew up in South Jersey and played in numerous rock cover bands throughout high school. After graduating, he spent a semester at Berklee College of Music in Boston and then transferred to The University of the Arts in Philadelphia. It was at UArts that he received his Bachelor of Music in Jazz Guitar and then his Master of Arts in Music Education. Sam lives in Huntersville with his wife and daughter. You can catch him at open jazz jams around the Lake Norman area. Sam works mainly on original compositions blending his background of rock and jazz. Some of his influences are Mike Stern, Jimi Hendrix, Pat Metheny, Ozzy, Iron Maiden, Herbie Hancock, Miles Davis, Wayne Krantz, Jaco Pastorius, Metallica, John Coltrane, Soundgarden, Steve Vai, Van Halen, Eagles, Stones, Beatles, Frank Zappa, Rush, Joe Satriani, Bob Marley, Dirty Heads, 21 Pilots, Foo Fighters, Journey, Dave Matthews, Black Sabbath, Michael Hedges, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin
Maura StreppaVocal & Keyboard InstructorMaura studied at Interlochen Performing Arts School from 2011-2013 in Musical Theater. Originally from Chicago, IL, Maura trained with John Komasa for 5 years and continues her training with him to...Maura studied at Interlochen Performing Arts School from 2011-2013 in Musical Theater. Originally from Chicago, IL, Maura trained with John Komasa for 5 years and continues her training with him today. She is the lead singer in the band 4 Years Apart and is working on her own album. Maura specializes in show tunes, blues, pop, and classical. Her inspirations and favorite performers are Alessia Cara, Amy Winehouse (only the music, not the bad stuff), Adele, Ray Charles, Levon Helm, Bob Dylan and Stop Light Observations.
Ian CameronVocal InstructorIan Cameron has a passion for life. He chooses to express that passion through music. He studied education, vocal performance and jazz at North Carolina Central University from 2004- 2008. Music ...Ian Cameron has a passion for life. He chooses to express that passion through music. He
studied education, vocal performance and jazz at North Carolina Central University from 2004-
2008. Music began very early in his life. As a young kid, growing up outside of Fayetteville North
Carolina, he was exposed to classic rock, country, and soul. Still a bit later, rock, hip hop and
R&B. Growing up he was always attracted to the voice and how it could be used to articulate
song. In the beginning, his vocal inspirations were, John Fogerty, Steve Perry, Stevie Wonder,
Aretha Franklin, Johnny Cash, Elvis Pressley and Janis Joplin, to name a few. Later, during
college, he became inspired by classical and jazz vocalists such as Plácido Domingo, Luciano
Pavarotti, Jon Hendricks, Jessye Norman, Ella Fitzgerald and Richard Banks. There, he honed his
vocal prowess and learned from the best how to transform voices. Currently, Ian is a
professional vocalist, an educator of 10 years in the local public education scene throughout
Charlotte metro and a worship minister in his local church. In these environments, he inspires
people of all ages to follow their musical passions. Ian believes all people can learn and that
perfect practice makes perfect. Music is that vehicle. Family, unity, and harmony are all
paramount and the life for what he stands for.
Phil MartellyOwnerA graduate of the esteemed Berklee College of Music in Boston, Phil's passion for music is unmatched by few and is a driving force behind School of Rock to Cornelius. He is the definition of the wo...A graduate of the esteemed Berklee College of Music in Boston, Phil's passion for music is unmatched by few and is a driving force behind School of Rock to Cornelius. He is the definition of the word musician as he rocks at not one but several instruments; guitar, bass, and drums. Residing in Massachusetts where he owns and teaches at School of Rock Seekonk, Phil has played with a lot of New England's hottest bands including Pappy Chulo as the opening act for none other than Incubus.
Shawn GarrityOwnerShawn's musical journey began at age eleven when his Dad handed him a guitar and taught him a few chords. As he grew, so did his love for music. At fifteen, he joined a band, began writing music, a...Shawn's musical journey began at age eleven when his Dad handed him a guitar and taught him a few chords. As he grew, so did his love for music. At fifteen, he joined a band, began writing music, and playing original and cover songs at clubs and venues throughout New England. He studied jazz and classical music at Western Connecticut State University and earned a B.A. in Music Industry from the University of New Haven. After college Shawn formed several bands which eventually resulted in the formation of his current band, VulGarrity. The band has completed three nationwide tours, signed an artist development deal with MySpace Records, obtained endorsement deals from DigiTech, Hercules Stands and WB Gear, won first place in 90.7 WXIN's 2010 Rock Hunt, and won first place in 95.5 WBRU's 2011 Rock Hunt. Shawn has shared the stage with Mike Doughty, Days of the New, The Misfits, King’s X, Sponge, The Joy Formidable, Sleeper Agent, Psychostick, The Prodigals, Ra, Robert DeLong, The Heavy, Ra Ra Riot and Electric Six. In addition to fulfilling his role as Owner and Music Director at School of Rock Seekonk, Shawn continues to record music and tour with his sister and VulGarrity bandmate Tracy. With the use of loop pedals, the two play guitar, bass, drums and keys simultaneously while singing, often switching instruments during their shows, creating a unique live music experience. While Shawn enjoys listening to and playing a wide variety of music, he is most inspired by all things rock. Favorite artists include Rush, Led Zeppelin, Faith No More, Alice in Chains and Prince.
Scott McCarlGuitar InstructorScott McCarl born and raised in the small town of Frederick, Maryland discovered his passion for music at a young age. He started off playing his older brothers guitar that was laying around the ho...Scott McCarl born and raised in the small town of Frederick, Maryland discovered his passion for music at a young age. He started off playing his older brothers guitar that was laying around the house. He taught himself to read tablature and that inspired him to want to learn more. Scott continued to study music theory ever since and has learned how to apply the knowledge he obtained to guitar. He played lead and rhythm guitar In a band called Green Valley, who wrote and produced 6 albums. Scotts biggest influences are Animals As Leaders, Darkest Hour, Polyphia, Bulb, BucketHead, Explosions In the Sky and much more.
Karyn PearsonVocal & Keyboard InstructorKaryn grew up in a musical family in central Pennsylvania. Her roots were in gospel music and began singing with her dad at age two. She began taking piano lessons at age seven and became an accomp...Karyn grew up in a musical family in central Pennsylvania. Her roots were in gospel music and began singing with her dad at age two. She began taking piano lessons at age seven and became an accompanist for a district choir at age nine and later for a touring youth choir. Karyn began playing viola and flute at age nine, performing in a local orchestra throughout her teens. She competed in and won numerous teen vocal performance competitions prior to attending Missouri State University in Springfield, MO. Karyn has been used as a vocalist in national marketing and advertising campaigns, radio, and TV. She has served as a music director and worship leader for churches and has performed for weddings, community events, and conferences for over 30 years. Karyn’s early influences were gospel, traditional pop, and easy listening. She also loves all genres of music and has sung and played in gospel, pop, jazz, and rock bands.
Testimonials
“It is not an exaggeration to say that when we began with School Of Rock, little Jeremy was struggling greatly with focus and commitment and drive. His school work suffered as did his self-esteem. Sports were not going to steer him like they did his dad. It is also not an exaggeration to state that nine months later, Jeremy is a completely changed little boy. It is truly unbelievable. As his parents it also brings an indescribable amount of joy to see how he’s grown - so much more focus, so much more drive, so much more confidence... Jesus, his grades all went up.”
- Josh G. Cornelius, N“We absolutely LOVE SOR-Cornelius! They make learning fun! They communicate well with the kids and parents! I have been very pleased with our experience!! It has really brought so much joy to my daughter’s life!! She is ALWAYS excited about her lessons and rehearsals!! I also love how it has opened my daughter's mind to all genres of music! Her love of music has been enriched by being a part of this family!! Thank you SOR-Cornelius!”
- Crystal E. Cornelius, NC“The entire staff is excellent. They all work well with the children and all the children I have come in contact there love them. The program and the way it is all set from individual lessons to being in a band is awesome. The encouragement the staff gives to try new instruments is also a cool part of the program. I would highly recommend the location of the School of Rock to anyone at any age or level of experience.”
- Jason W. Cornelius, NC“School Of Rock is the place for budding musicians to find their niche. Our son joined just over a year ago and continues to grow. He's making such improvements musically and building wonderful friendships. Thank you SOR for having our son into your family!”
- Laurie R. Cornelius, NC“School of Rock Cornelius has been a great experience for our daughter who is just learning to play guitar. In the 6 months she has started lessons there she has picked up the fundamentals of both electric & acoustic and gets to pick the songs she wants to learn. This location has a very cool vibe and the management & instructors are all very friendly and welcoming, glad to be a part of it and we'll eventually work her into performing!”
- Misty C. Cornelius, NC