School of Rock Oak Park
Main Number
(708) 298-0002(708) 298-0002

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What's Going on at School of Rock Oak Park

Contact Information, Hours and Basic Information for School of Rock Oak Park

About School of Rock Oak Park

Welcome to your one-and-only stop for seriously fun, lasting music education – School of Rock Oak Park. With passionate instructors, an impressive selection of instruments, and killer program offerings, School of Rock Oak Park equips students with the tools they need to rock their worlds.

Music is about way more than solo acts. School of Rock Oak Park is as focused on community, teamwork, and friendships as it is on inspiring awesome music. Through our performance-based approach, we foster an inclusive community of rockers in Oak Park to build a unique type of confidence only gained through cool, real life experiences. Whether we’re in serious shredding-mode or just jamming along with the band, our team spurs the growth of real, practical skills for music-minded students.

At School of Rock Oak Park, we believe everyone deserves to have fun and feel like a rock star. Visit us and get a feel for the awesome opportunities your child has waiting just around the corner.

Contact Information

School of Rock Oak Park
219 Lake StreetOak Park, IL 60302
Main Number
(708) 298-0002(708) 298-0002
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Hours of Operation

Monday
2:00 PM - 8:15 PM
Tuesday
2:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday - Thursday
2:00 PM - 8:15 PM
Friday
2:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
SundayClosed

Programs

  • At School of Rock Oak Park, 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.

    Oak Park 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 Oak Park’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!

  • School of Rock Oak Park’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 Oak Park, 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 Oak Park’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!

  • School of Rock Oak Park’s top students can audition for our most prestigious honor: the School of Rock AllStars Program. Our AllStars represent the best of the best students from School of Rock’s entire global network of schools. With incredible musical aptitude, a knack for teamwork and incredible focus, today’s AllStars truly represent the future of rock and roll.

    Each summer, our AllStars embark on an authentic concert tour to perform in jaw-dropping live shows across the country, including Red Rocks, Lollapalooza, Hangout Music Fest, NAMM, Gathering of the Vibes, and countless others. AllStars also get to share the stage with experienced, larger-than-life performers like Alice Cooper, Eddie Vedder, and Slash, to name a few. There is no better way for a star on the rise to get a taste for what professional music is really like.

    School of Rock Oak Park’s AllStars can expect:

    • Real-world performances where they can shine in their chosen medium: guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and/or vocals
    • A fast-paced tour experience with stage shows at legendary events and venues
    • To play with the best performers from School of Rock’s global community
    • The opportunity to rock out on stage with world-renowned artists
    • An epic rock experience like no other!

  • School of Rock Oak Park 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 Oak Park, 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 Oak Park’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!

  • School of Rock Oak Park’s Rookies Program offers a gateway to understanding music for first and second graders. Using proprietary set-ups for guitar, bass, drums and keyboard, as well as other tools, we introduce our Rookies to music fundamentals in a fun way. The skills and passion for music that our Rookies learn prepare them for Rock 101 and a lifelong love of music.

    With exercises, tools and games customized to their age group, our Oak Park Rookies learn the concepts of music theory, rhythm, pitch, form and dynamics as they play alongside their friends. We encourage our students to explore various instruments and play styles so they begin to understand how individual contributions form a band; even the best solo keyboard players or vocalists need to understand how an ensemble works.

    All students in Oak Park’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!

  • Our preschool-aged Little Wing students at School of Rock Oak Park learn the creativity, confidence, and lasting experience they need to grow into life-long lovers and practitioners of music. Our exclusive approach to music education opens new doors of fun and excitement for children, from teamwork to the joy of rocking out on a favorite instrument. We create a safe, inclusive environment where music and learning work hand-in-hand to foster amazing growth in our Oak Park Rookies.

    Little Wing students at School of Rock Oak Park enjoy a broad assortment of music-centric games based on some of the most recognizable music in rock and roll history. With great music, a solid foundation in fun, and an environment that fosters real friendships, our students get an opportunity to grow like nowhere else.

    All Students in Oak Park’s Little Wing Program can expect:

    • Exploration of hand percussion and other tools to spark their imagination
    • Unique and engaging music games
    • Teamwork, cooperation, and group music activities
    • Fundamental skills for music and life
    • Fun and practical learning combined, perfectly tailored to growing minds!

  • School of Rock Oak Park’s music camps and workshops are designed to bring out the best performance in a fast-paced learning environment. Just like our standard programs, our camps offer a high-energy experience that is fun, creative and team-oriented. Our students learn music by playing it with their peers, guided by experienced instructors from the music community.

    From basic Performance Boot Camps to more advanced Guitar Building and Songwriting Training, School of Rock offers opportunities for musicians of all skill levels. Camps vary by location, so please contact us for a current list of camps and workshops at School of Rock Oak Park.

    Regardless of which camp they choose, students can expect:
    • Hands-on skill building for guitar, bass guitar, keyboard, drums, and/or vocals
    • One-on-one interaction with seasoned music professionals
    • A deeper appreciation for music theory and fundamentals
    • Greater confidence, collaboration and improvisation abilities
    • A fun and interactive experienceFind a Camp or Workshop

At School of Rock Oak Park, 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. Oak Park students will blow your mind with advanced performances chock-full of hits by ...
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At School of Rock Oak Park, 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.

Oak Park 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 Oak Park’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!
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Take a tour of School of Rock to see how our approach to music education teaches kids to rock their worlds.

Staff

    • Meet Adam Instefjord
      Music Director, Guitar & Bass Instructor, Rock 201 Director
      Adam Instefjord is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist and songwriter. Hailing from the NW suburbs of Chicago, Adam first picked up a guitar around the age of 12. After mastering the art of the pow...
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      Adam Instefjord is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist and songwriter. Hailing from the NW suburbs of Chicago, Adam first picked up a guitar around the age of 12. After mastering the art of the power chord, he devoted most of his free time to learning every song on every album he had. As a child of mid-90s punk, those first albums consisted of Green Day, Rancid, Offspring, Weezer, etc. Adam started his first band in the 8th grade and never looked back. He has since learned how to sing, play bass and drums, played countless shows with many bands, spent four years in Los Angeles, and toured the country. Adam also studied Audio Recording and Production at The Recording Workshop in Chillicothe, OH. He uses those skills at his recording studio The Space, located at Music Garage Chicago, where he records, produces and mixes a variety of artists as well as his own bands. His latest projects include pop-rock band Lights Alive (songwriter / guitar / backing vocals) punk-rock band The Mizzerables (guitar / backing vocals / producer), and rock cover band The Student Body (bass / vocals).
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    • Meet Amy Renzulli
      Owner
      Amy Renzulli, rocker mom and corporate marketer, is the owner of the School of Rock Oak Park. Starting at an early age, Amy recognized a tension between art and business. It began when her doctor-d...
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      Amy Renzulli, rocker mom and corporate marketer, is the owner of the School of Rock Oak Park. Starting at an early age, Amy recognized a tension between art and business. It began when her doctor-dad left his medical practice to pursue a career in art and her stay-at-home mom went off to law school and started her own successful career. As a result, Amy has spent most of her work life, blending the two sides, building her career in Sales and Marketing at Blue Cross and Blue Shield and at the same time, pursuing artistic interests. While she developed her business skills in Web marketing, sales strategy and technology adoption, she also hosted art shows, crafted and sold jewelry in local boutiques and galleries and generally sought opportunities that would enable her to marry her business skills with her love of art. When her daughter, at the time, only 12 years old, attended summer camp at the Chicago School of Rock, Amy suggested that they should consider opening a school in Oak Park. Amy learned that the School of Rock was a franchise opportunity and a light bulb went off. She knew that she would be the person to make it happen. In early December, 2012, Amy and her ever-supportive husband, Bob Miller, converted a 50-year-old combination warehouse and office building into the vibrant home of the School of Rock Oak Park.
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    • Meet Andy Quirk
      Studio Manager
      Born and raised in southern California, Andy has always been a huge music fan (specifically rock and heavy metal!). Following his wife here from Denver to support her career (even giving up a promo...
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      Born and raised in southern California, Andy has always been a huge music fan (specifically rock and heavy metal!). Following his wife here from Denver to support her career (even giving up a promotion for it!), Andy found a 2nd home here at our school. Andy has an extensive background in customer service for large, national companies. His customer oriented skills make him the ideal person to manage our front office and handle our customer relations.
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    • Meet Annette Fritts
      Beginner Guitar Instructor, Rookies Director, Event & Party Planner
      Annette grew up in a music loving family and has no earlier childhood memories than of The Beatles, A Hard Days Night and Sundays spent cruising the streets of Logan Square with three teenage uncle...
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      Annette grew up in a music loving family and has no earlier childhood memories than of The Beatles, A Hard Days Night and Sundays spent cruising the streets of Logan Square with three teenage uncles to the sounds of British Invasion, Motown, Jim, Jimi and Janis.It was to no one's surprise that most of her boyfriends had a guitar strapped to them, and eventually weary of watching, she picked up an instrument and began playing herself.She has an extensive background in Theatre, both performing and producing. Together with her director husband, they founded, built and operated one of the first commercial venues in the Bucktown area; a 100 seat performance space and art gallery.The very definition of ROCKER MOM, Annette organized and directed a fundraiser concert of her daughter's second grade class performing hits of the 60's, including a medley from 'Hair', was immediately offered a position teaching guitar and over the past 7 years, has developed her own technique to start even the youngest guitar enthusiasts rocking. She's taught hundreds of kids through Park District programs she initiated in Oak Park, River Forest, and Elmwood Park as well as privately in her home studio.Annette is the creator of 'Guitar Cat' and has been seen over the years performing with her band of students, 'The Cat Pack'.She couldn't be happier to join the band at The Oak Park School Of Rock.
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    • Meet Brandon Taylor-Sides
      Keys and Vocals Instructor
      Brandon graduated Columbia College Chicago, with a concentration in Music Composition for Film. Even though Brandon's original concentration was music education, Brandon has always had passion for ...
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      Brandon graduated Columbia College Chicago, with a concentration in Music Composition for Film. Even though Brandon's original concentration was music education, Brandon has always had passion for music. Brandon's primary instruments are piano,oboe and mallet percussion but is also known for his amazing voice. With experience in many different Genres of music such as Gospel, Jazz, Classical, Pop and RB. Brandon is very versatile with styles of music and has and understanding and willingness to learn more. On top of Brandon's passion and love of music Brandon has a passion for people and caring. Having much experience of being verbal for human rights. Brandon speaks at many different events and for different student led organizations Brandon is very verbal speaking out for Human sexuality, Religious theology and Self Development.
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    • Meet Cherryl Fonfara
      Vocal Instructor
      On top of being a vocalist with The Dennis Keith Experience, Cherryl has performed and/or recorded with a variety of artists including Sweetening, Angela Bofill, Michael Bolton, Vic Damone, Patti A...
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      On top of being a vocalist with The Dennis Keith Experience, Cherryl has performed and/or recorded with a variety of artists including Sweetening, Angela Bofill, Michael Bolton, Vic Damone, Patti Austin, Morris Chorus, Spunk, Freda Payne and Wayne King, as well as performing with her own group Cherryl Fonfara and Company at venues like Chicagofest. She has also sung jingles for products such as Illinois Bell, Sears, Kellogg's, McDonald's, Old Style Beer, Henniger Beer, Busch Beer, Illinois Lottery, and RCA; and has performed as a television and radio voice-over for products such as Betty Crocker Easy Delicious Desserts, Mutual of Omaha, Thorspring Mineral Water, Great Frame'‘Up, Village Saucerie, Safeway, Ford, Cash Carry, Westin River North, St. Paul Federal, and US West.
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    • Meet Chris Connelly
      Vocal Instructor
      Chris Connelly has been a force in independent music since the inception of his f irst band FINI TRIBE in his native Edinburgh, Scotland in 1980. During his 8 years w ith the band they released se...
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      Chris Connelly has been a force in independent music since the inception of his f irst band FINI TRIBE in his native Edinburgh, Scotland in 1980. During his 8 years w ith the band they released several singles, played extensively around the U.K. and recorded a radio session for the legendary B.B.C. program THE JOHN PEEL SHOW. Going on to score a massive European hit with 'Detestimony' before leaving to move t o CHICAGO at the invitation of Ministry's Al Jourgenson to sing with the band and collaborate on many musical side projects. Chris went on to be featured as a singer and composer on 3 hit albums for ministry on Sire records as well as recording regularly for the Chicago based WAXTRAX! Records and INVISIBLE records. He has maintained an incredibly prolific career to this day, recently completing his 15th solo album, he has over 300 published songs both as a sole composer and a co writer. Chris is a vital part of the Chicago music scene, a scene that he adores and remains loyal to whilst at the same time never shying away from casting his net to other places for collaborators. In the last few years he formed 'Sons of the Silent Age' with Morrissey drummer Matt Walker, another Chicagoan, to perform the music of David Bowie along with other notable Chicago musicians. Amongst the musicians Chris has collaborated with over the years are Meshell Ndegeocello, Shirley Manson, Robert Fripp, Steve Shelley (Sonic Youth), Killing Joke, Jah Wobble (Public Image Limited), Cabaret Voltaire, Rebecca Pidgeon, Steve Albini, Tim Kinsella, Duane Dennison (Jesus Lizard), David Sim (Jesus Lizard), Ruby, Bill Rieflin (King Crimson, R.E.M.), Chris Bruce (Seal, Wendy Lisa), and Bill Laswell.Chris has also been interviewed extensively on NPR's SOUND OPINIONS, TONY SARABIA'S MORNING SHIFT, as well as with STEVE EDWARDS and has been a guest at several WBEZ live events.
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    • Meet Chris Kimmons
      Rock 101 Director, Guitar & Bass Instructor
      Chris Kimmons moved from West Virginia 5 years ago to pursue a music career in Chicago. In that short amount of time, he has covered ground in many genres including rock, metal, traditional folk, j...
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      Chris Kimmons moved from West Virginia 5 years ago to pursue a music career in Chicago. In that short amount of time, he has covered ground in many genres including rock, metal, traditional folk, jazz, fusion, and electronic. Having studied music composition at Columbia College Chicago for his first two and a half years in the city, he has studied with many of Chicago's finest musicians. His bands, Can I Get An Amen and Actual Rhinoceros, show his diverse musical interests and his dedication to preserving music history while not allowing the past to inhibit the future.
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    • Meet Dave Vazzano
      Drum Instructor, Community Relations Director
      Dave began his musical journey playing in concert and marching bands throughout grade school and college at Western Illinois University. His passion for rock music started when he bought his first ...
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      Dave began his musical journey playing in concert and marching bands throughout grade school and college at Western Illinois University. His passion for rock music started when he bought his first drum set at age 12. Shortly after he started a punk rock band with fellow School of Rock Instructor Adam Instefjord and never looked back playing in rock bands since. Dave is currently playing in a handful of bands in Chicago. He is the founding member of the the female fronted alt rock band Lights Alive as well as playing drums for the Chicago punk rock outfit The Mizzerables and The Student Body ( cover band that features rock tunes from the 50's to today). This year his drumming will be featured on a series of EP's from Lights Alive and on the debut album "Every Last Stitch" from The Mizzerables.
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    • Meet Dennis Keith Johnson
      Grad School Director, Bass Instructor
      Dennis has made a lifelong career as a bass player and currently leads the Dennis Keith Experience. He has been tirelessly touring and recording for many years and is thrilled to be able to share h...
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      Dennis has made a lifelong career as a bass player and currently leads the Dennis Keith Experience. He has been tirelessly touring and recording for many years and is thrilled to be able to share his expertise with the students at School of Rock. In addition to all of his band leading responsibilities, Dennis has performed and/or recorded with bands and artists such as: Chase (Epic Records), Survivor (Scotti Brothers Records), Software (Head First Records), Dennis DeYoung (AM Records), Jerry Butler (Motown Records), B.B. King, Jim Peterik (Epic Records), and Steve Dahl; in venues that include Carnegie Hall, The Tonight Show, Newport Jazz Festival, Hollywood Bowl, Budukan (Tokyo), Radio City Music Hall, Chicagofest, Summerfest (Milwaukee), Poplar Creek and Holiday Star Theater. Dennis may also be heard playing on hundreds of TV/Radio jingles such as Sears, State Farm Insurance, United Airlines, McDonald's, 7-11, Miller Beer, Anheuser-Busch, Old Style Beer and Nintendo.
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    • Meet Eli Namay
      Bass Instructor
      Eli Namay has been working to develop a musical practice that is informed by social theory and political struggle. This has led him to an interest in symbolic deconstruction through non-idiomatic i...
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      Eli Namay has been working to develop a musical practice that is informed by social theory and political struggle. This has led him to an interest in symbolic deconstruction through non-idiomatic improvisation, experimental notation that gives rise to a multiplicity of outcomes, as well as liminal perceptual frameworks. Eli performs on both the electric and double bass, regularly collaborating with folks form Chicago’s improvised music, contemporary classical (new music), and folk music scenes. Aside from his main performance focus Eli also plays regularly with the Blue Water Kings jobbing band and has been teaching electric bass, double bass, guitar, piano, and drums in the Chicagoland area since 2011.

      Eli possesses a BA in instrumental performance from Columbia college where he studied double bass with Dan Anderson, electric bass with Chuck Webb, and piano and composition with Dennis Luxion. Outside of school Eli has studied with Anton Hatwich as well as Greg Sarchet of the Lyric Opera Orchestra.

      You can find recordings, compositions, and writings at elinamay.com
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    • Meet Heidie Fifield
      Vocal Instructor
      Heidie Fifield has been charming audiences with her voice since the age of eleven. A natural performer, she has proven time and time again that music is her calling and passion. Receiving her B...
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      Heidie Fifield has been charming audiences with her voice since the age of eleven. A natural
      performer, she has proven time and time again that music is her calling and passion. Receiving
      her Bachelor of Music in Contemporary and Urban Popular Music from Columbia College
      Chicago, Heidie has gained extensive knowledge in Vocal Performance, Songwriting,
      Production, and Music Business. She has also had the chance to perform and collaborate with
      several highly acclaimed musicians including Grammy Award winning singer/songwriters Paula
      Cole and Jim Lauderdale, multi-talented singer/songwriter and guitarist Charlie Sexton, and the
      world renowned Todd Rundgren, through Columbia’s Master Class/Residency program.
      Currently you can find Heidie as a vocalist and songwriter for several independent music
      projects, and performing regularly as the lead singer in one of Chicago's top event bands, Shout
      Out. She is also preparing to release her first solo debut EP, “No Love Like Our Love”, due in
      Winter of 2016. Heidie is excited for her new role as Voice Instructor, and is honored to have
      joined the many incredibly talented musicians that are a part of the School of Rock Oak Park
      family.
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    • Meet Holly Quirk
      General Manager
      Born and raised in Chicago, Holly spent her childhood attending rock concerts and surrounded by musicians, as she grew up in a very musical family. After a few years of college and multiple tours w...
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      Born and raised in Chicago, Holly spent her childhood attending rock concerts and surrounded by musicians, as she grew up in a very musical family. After a few years of college and multiple tours with Chicago based heavy metal bands, Holly moved to Los Angeles in 2008 to pursue a career in the Music business. After running multiple successful rock schools out there, she took a leap and moved to Denver, CO to start her career with School of Rock! A series of events brought her back to her home state in 2015, now running one of the largest schools in the system. An avid music lover and a jack of many instruments (proclaimed master of none), Holly's background and experience in management and the Music Industry make her a perfect fit to lead our school.
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    • Meet Jamie Dull
      Drum Instructor
      Jamie Dull began playing drums at age five, and picked up a guitar around age ten. At age twelve he began performing live in and around northern Ohio. Since then he has recorded and played througho...
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      Jamie Dull began playing drums at age five, and picked up a guitar around age ten. At age twelve he began performing live in and around northern Ohio. Since then he has recorded and played throughout the United States with many bands including Lobster Newberg, Radiofix, The Heavy Hearses, More Killer, The Blind Staggers, The Dancehall Twigs, SMOKER and more. He has played live shows with a wide range of different musicians, including Jim Peterik (Survivor/Ides of March), Joel Hoekstra (Night Ranger/Whitesnake/Trans Siberian Orchestra), Kelly Keagy (Night Ranger), Don Barnes (.38 Special), Marcus Rezak (Digital Tape Machine), Rik Emmett (Triumph), among many others.

      In 2014 Jamie released a debut album with his band The Heavy Hearses, which has a long list of special guests from Chicago area bands. Shortly thereafter, SMOKER began their year-long project entitled "Monchu: 24 Songs/ 24 Stories", which sees the band release two songs per month for an entire year, including Jamie on drums. Jamie's first recording appearance with SMOKER was on their 2012 album "Strange Ways". Additionally, Jamie appeared on JBTV Music Television in 2015 with SMOKER. Video link: https://youtu.be/Fw9qMyGE1kw?list=PLy60fMp0OtZ8QZtJf7r-Gle8DZAxDyGmi

      Jamie is also a co-founding member of The Dancehall Twigs, a fusion of professional dance along side psychedelic, instrumental rock and roll. Six female dancers perform choreographed pieces to each song, with inclusion of modern jazz and contemporary dance. The band typically performs about once per year. The Dancehall Twigs are planning a 2016 debut album release.

      Finally, Jamie has recently begun working alongside close friends from Chicago bands In La Kesh, The Localvores, and the Pistachio Brothers for a brand new original band called Stampy, who most recently debuted their first demo.

      Since 2002 Jamie has appeared on roughly 14 different albums, and has played hundreds of live shows. He has also been working with School of Rock since 2013.
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    • Meet Jennifer Malone
      Music Director, Vocal Instructor
      Joining School of Rock in Oak Park after 5+ years at the Chicago school, Jennifer is thrilled to bring the ROCK to the community she also lives in. Jennifer has big plans to build our school into a...
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      Joining School of Rock in Oak Park after 5+ years at the Chicago school, Jennifer is thrilled to bring the ROCK to the community she also lives in. Jennifer has big plans to build our school into a force within the region and the School of Rock system by bringing simply the best in popular music education to our young people. In Chicago, she built a successful voice program, directed shows (Best of the 90's, Queen. Punk, The Clash, Rock Operas) served as summer camp director and organized fundraisers. Jennifer also draws from her vast experience as a performing and recording artist and background in theater education. She has developed a rock vocal process that enables her students to grow their voices and their ability to perform at a high level. Her lessons concentrate on freeing the natural voice, breathing techniques, power sourcing and understanding song structure, dynamics and interpretation. Her curriculum is designed to reach younger students as well as prepare mature students for professional programs and beyond. Jennifer holds a BFA in Acting from Kent State University and an M.Phil in Irish Theatre Studies from Trinity College Dublin. Her study and experience teaching performance skills, styles and stagecraft help her rock vocals students gain a better sense of freedom onstage. As a working musician herself, Jennifer helps her students understand the professional aspects of the music industry. She serves on the SOR Instrument Advisory Group and is an active member of CAEF (Chicago Arts Educators' Forum). Jennifer brings a wicked sense of humor and formidable energy to all of her work and is passionate about the School of Rock program. She lives in Oak Park with her husband, Aaron Walters, an actor, and her young son, Desmond, a Lightening McQueen enthusiast. Jennifer has been seen and heard on stages and recordings for many years and has played about every club in the city. From duos to small bands to jobbing bands, tribute acts and a ten-piece orchestra, both lead and back-up singing, she has gained knowledge of the industry. One of her career highlights was getting to play CBGB before they shuttered. Her musical alter-ego, 'Eva Destruction', was once heralded as 'the purest punk rock artist alive today' by a music critic who seemed to forget Joe Strummer was still breathing at the time. So, she's got that going for her.
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    • Meet Jim Lunsford
      A chance encounter with a ukelele at the tender age of nine launched Jim Lunsford on a life-long Rock & Roll Adventure. Teenage garage bands in the Arizona desert led to years of touring and recor...
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      A chance encounter with a ukelele at the tender age of nine launched Jim Lunsford on a life-long Rock & Roll Adventure. Teenage garage bands in the Arizona desert led to years of touring and recording in musical styles that ranged from rock, blues, and R&B to cumbia, salsa, and musical theater. Along the way, he has been privileged to work with a number of great artists including Bonnie Raitt, John Mayall, Bo Diddley, The Four Tops, Bobby 'Blue' Bland, Delbert McClinton, Dallas Taylor, 'Gatemouth' Brown, and Luther Allison.

      During his musical travels, Jim took de-tours to study classical piano, music theory, and earn a Masters in Choral Conducting at Arizona State University. Having invested all that time and money in higher education, he switched tracks to a career as a high school and college instructor (though he continued to gig in every city between Tucson and Seattle, as well as Chicagoland, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand). After toiling valiantly for twenty-five years in classrooms from Berwyn to the border of Mexico, Jim retired from the Latin School of Chicago, and he is thrilled to be returning to his rock roots as a member of the amazing staff at the Oak Park School of Rock. In addition to teaching at the Sch'rock, he records and performs with his roots-rock band The Hurtin' Kind.

      Jim loves basketball, burritos, and bicycles, dogs, dad-hood and the Dodgers. His favorite bands are The Beatles and Los Lobos, and his favorite color is Pacific blue. And he loves teaching music to young people.
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    • Meet Joel Janchenko
      Drum Instructor
      Joel Janchenko is a Chicago based drum instructor, knowledgeable in a wide variety of genres and musical skill sets. He has played all over the states, including The Metro in Chicago, multiple Hous...
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      Joel Janchenko is a Chicago based drum instructor, knowledgeable in a wide variety of genres and musical skill sets. He has played all over the states, including The Metro in Chicago, multiple House of Blues venues, Milwaukee's SummerFest, and Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas. After studying at Berklee College of Music, he went on to teach at School of Rock. Currently, he plays professionally with Boy Band Review, a nationally touring tribute act. Excited to start this new chapter, the goal is to inspire the new generation of musicians.
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    • Meet Katherine Bill
      Katherine moved to Oak Park in 2005 from Orange County, Ca. After graduating high school at OPRF and attending Western Illinois University, she came back and nannied around town before becoming Ass...
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      Katherine moved to Oak Park in 2005 from Orange County, Ca. After graduating high school at OPRF and attending Western Illinois University, she came back and nannied around town before becoming Assistant Manager at Magical Minds Studio where she worked for 5 years. She later took time off to be at home with her daughter, before becoming a Licensed Real Estate Broker at Gloor Realty. It's Katherine's extensive customer service experience, her background with children, and her love of music, that makes her a perfect fit as our Studio Coordinator.
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    • Meet Matt Tate
      Study Hall Director, Guitar & Bass Instructor
      Matt Tate is a Chicago-based Chapman Stick artist, Guitarist, Composer and Instructor. For the last 10 years he hasbeen dedicated to mastering the Chapman Stick and performing Solo and in bands. Cu...
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      Matt Tate is a Chicago-based Chapman Stick artist, Guitarist, Composer and Instructor. For the last 10 years he hasbeen dedicated to mastering the Chapman Stick and performing Solo and in bands. Currently, he is composing musicfor a Solo Stick record (M@T8) to be released this Fall, launching a new website, touring, and working on multiplerecording/performing collaborations (metal-math-prog-experimental). His current musical leanings are in the vein ofthe technical-death-shred of Blotted Science to the rhythmic madness of Frank Zappa, the interlocking poly-rhythmicspiderwebs of King Crimson and the stark, overwhelming beauty of Arvo Part. He has played in: - Destroyer Or Liberator (relentlessly pulsating, destructively harmonious, melodically chaotic, and alwayscut with blistering humor, wit, and spontaneity) Debut album, 'Incoming!' released in January 2013.( www.DestroyerOrLiberator.bandcamp.com ) - DjM Trio ('Jungle-Bop!!' If Mulatu Astatke, Squarepusher, Fela Kuti, King Crimson, Charlie Hunter, Lee 'Scratch'Perry, Postal Service, Miles and Coltrane played the soundtrack for The French Connection in 2015) Debut album'The Intrigue' released in Fall 2010. The followup album will be posthumously released later this Summer/Fall.( www.DjMTrio.com ) - The Odd Trio (King Crimson meets Mr. Bungle meets Sleepytime Gorilla Museum meets the World's ethnic musics). - Currently composing for debut Solo Album "M@T8". - Matt Tate is a member of Overtōn Amps "Artist Roster!" Playing the Featherweight 500 Bass Amp (x2) and OBN-410 + OBN-210 Bass Cabinets. ( www.OvertonAmps.com )
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    • Meet Matt Velasco
      Matt believes a good teacher is forever a student, because there is always something to be learned or improved upon. The seed of his love for music was planted around the age of five on the piano, ...
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      Matt believes a good teacher is forever a student, because there is always something to be learned or improved upon. The seed of his love for music was planted around the age of five on the piano, and nurtured by his very musically inclined family. Through his formative years he had formal training with multiple instruments including guitar, violin, and the drum set. After a few years of a musical hiatus, after high school and a stint at massage therapy school, Matt realized his true passion was for music. He decided to pursue music seriously and since 2012 has been performing with various ensembles throughout the city of Chicago. As a proponent of diversifying his range of skills in music, he has taken on teaching as a new chapter in his career. He hopes to inspire and challenge his students, and is excited to be a part of the magical, burgeoning community at School of Rock Oak Park!
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    • Meet Max Carrillo
      Guitar & Bass Instructor
      As a Columbia College graduate, Max has gone on to become a fill in touring guitarist for rock group, Remada. Along with being a singer-songwriter, he is also the front man and manager for Chicago'...
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      As a Columbia College graduate, Max has gone on to become a fill in touring guitarist for rock group, Remada. Along with being a singer-songwriter, he is also the front man and manager for Chicago's hard rock quartet UnderFire. He has played various venues such as House Of Blues, Metro, Bottom Lounge, Toads Place and Webster Theatre. Max has also shared the stage with notable acts such as Saving Abel, Cavo, Lights Alive and Three Years Hollow. Max looks forward to inspiring along with sharing his love and knowledge of music with his students.
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    • Meet Michael Brooks
      Michael James Brooks has been studying music since the age of four, when he started piano lessons and first heard his parents' vinyl copy of Pet Sounds. While being trained in classical piano, Broo...
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      Michael James Brooks has been studying music since the age of four, when he started piano lessons and first heard his parents' vinyl copy of Pet Sounds. While being trained in classical piano, Brooks eventually found himself drawn to Billy Joel, Ben Folds, and rock operas. He studied Music, Theatre, and Voice at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, MI before moving to Chicago with his Indie-Pop/Piano-Rock band Common Shiner. In his 12-year tenure with that project Brooks charted nationally in the AC format (thanks to major support from Midwestern radio stations), toured the continental US, and made a slasher-movie-parody music video that went viral across the globe with over 12 million views. Brooks has also voiced radio commercials and characters nationally, and won a Kennedy Center Special Award for Theatrical Sound Design in 2006. Current endeavors include Otter Finn, Foster, Front Runners, and solo projects.
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    • Meet Michael Morgan
      Guitar/Bass Instructor, Rookies Instructor
      Mike has been playing music for close to 10 years, and has roots in the Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan, but loves all kinds of music genres, such as jazz, funk, rock, blues, cla...
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      Mike has been playing music for close to 10 years, and has roots in the Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan, but loves all kinds of music genres, such as jazz, funk, rock, blues, classical, metal, folk and bluegrass and lots in between! He believes there is always more to learn when it comes to music and strives to keep improving as a musician and a teacher. "I'm extremely grateful and excited to be a part of such a great team! It's never to late to accomplish your dreams!" We're very happy to have him!
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    • Meet Naomi O'Dowd-Ryan
      Little Wing Instructor, Vocal & Keys Instructor
      Naomi O’Dowd-Ryan graduated from Columbia College Chicago with a degree in Music but she has been studying music all her life. She started singing classical and contemporary music early when she ...
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      Naomi O’Dowd-Ryan graduated from Columbia College Chicago with a degree in Music but she has been studying music all her life. She started singing classical and contemporary music early when she was in the Chicago Children’s Choir. She then approached the singer/songwriter style of performing and at this point, from being in countless choirs, ensembles and bands she’s sung every style under the sun. She has been singing and accompanying herself on the piano since she was in her early teen years and has played most of the major venues in Chicago including The Metro, The Hard Rock Café, City Winery, and Chicago Blues Fest (all three days) and continues to grow that list. She plays piano, writes songs and sings in her original group Giantess as well as studies classical Indian music. She has taught ensembles with the Blues Kids of America Foundation, which allowed her to teach at the Fender Center and the University of Irvine California. Her main teaching focus is that a good foundation of technique and health will best allow students to grow in creativity and musical ability and allow the student to connect with the music and other musicians with ease.
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    • Meet Patrick Walsh
      Guitar/Bass Instructor
      Patrick Walsh began playing guitar at the ripe age of 13. After years of lessons he developed his skill enough to begin performing for live audiences. His favorite bands include, Phish, Dave Matthe...
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      Patrick Walsh began playing guitar at the ripe age of 13. After years of lessons he developed his skill enough to begin performing for live audiences. His favorite bands include, Phish, Dave Matthews and Drake. His favorite music inspires his own band's music. A mixture of funk, rock jam and pop. Throughout his career Patrick has performed hundreds of times with his band "Walsher Clemons". The band recently recorded their debut album "Dancing & Praying", which was co-written by Walsh. Patrick strives to spark passion among his students. Focusing on the fundamentals while simultaneously incorporating the flair and confidence that go hand in hand with live performance.
      Walsh currently resides in Hinsdale Illinois. Attending Benedictine University and performing frequently with Walsher Clemons. Patrick's still dreams of becoming a rock star and is actively pursuing his career as a professional musician.
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    • Meet Ryan Knight
      Guitar Instructor
      Bio Coming Soon!
    • Meet Steve Edwards
      Guitar, Bass, Keyboard Instructor
      Steve Edwards began playing piano at the age of five and began studying guitar at age elevenafter hearing a classical guitar recital at his church on Easter Sunday. Since then, Edwardshas concertiz...
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      Steve Edwards began playing piano at the age of five and began studying guitar at age elevenafter hearing a classical guitar recital at his church on Easter Sunday. Since then, Edwardshas concertized throughout the United States and Europe as a recitalist, chamber musician,and soloist'”as well as half of the renowned Edwards-Simmons Guitar Duo. After receivinghis bachelor's degree on a scholarship to DePaul University, where he studied with legendaryguitarist Leon Borkowski, He pursued his Master's degree at DePaul under the instructionof Mark Maxwell. Steve has studied and worked with such world-famous guitarists as PepéRomero, Christopher Parkening, Denis Azabagic, Douglas Niedt, and Robert Guthrie. Anexceptionally talented classical guitarist, Steve Edwards received the distinguished honor ofrunner up in the Society of American Musicians Guitar Competition.A versatile chamber musician, Mr. Edwards's preeminent performance career has includedcollaborations with many notable artists, including flamenco guitarist Carlos Montoya, legendaryjazz pianist George Shearing, and violin virtuoso Gidon Kremer. Mr. Edwards' extensive theatrecredits include The Goodman Theatre's production of Fecerico García-Lorca's 'Yerma' andLight Opera Works' production of 'Man of La Mancha.' Recordings of Mr. Edwards have beenfeatured on national broadcasts by Chicago's fine arts radio station, 98.7WFMT as well as onRadio France. Having played in bands since the age of eleven, Mr. Edwards formed the Steve EdwardsOrchestra in 1994. He has devoted a lifetime of experience to performing and has appeared inconcert with Dave Mason, Buddy Guy, and George Shearing.Mr. Edwards is a prolific composer and arranger for film and live theatre. His compositionson Guitarra Azul's debut CD Mariposa have received great acclaim as well as enthusiasticreception from audiences nationwide.
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    • Meet Tim Johnson
      Guitar Instructor
      Tim Johnson first picked up the guitar over 20 years ago, at age 13, and hasn't put it down since. In 2001, he earned a BA in Music Business from Elmhurst College. He has been teaching private guit...
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      Tim Johnson first picked up the guitar over 20 years ago, at age 13, and hasn't put it down since. In 2001, he earned a BA in Music Business from Elmhurst College. He has been teaching private guitar and bass lessons consistently since 2000 in the western suburbs and running rock band programs for kids since 2010. When outside of lessons, Tim evenly divides his time between practicing, rehearsals and a plethora of varying live performance situations, including everything from Chicago street festivals to weddings to large events like Riot Fest to big and small club shows to performing on the street. Trying to stay as busy as possible, he has held tenure in countless bands. This constant real world performing experience enriches every lesson. In addition to several original projects that Tim has in the works, he also currently performs extensively in and around Chicago with The Student Body (party rock covers).
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    • Meet Thor Bremer
      Drum Instructor
      Thor was born in Madison, WI, and raised in Portage, WI. After studying piano as an elementary student, he joined the school band. In junior high, Thor joined the jazz band, and it was there where ...
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      Thor was born in Madison, WI, and raised in Portage, WI. After studying piano as an elementary student, he joined the school band. In junior high, Thor joined the jazz band, and it was there where he first discovered, by accident, that he had quite an affinity for playing drums. It was also in jazz band where he was invited to play with his first rock band, Blindspot. In high school, Thor continued playing drums in school band as well as in outside rock groups. Thor then enrolled at UW-Milwaukee for film, but soon changed his major to music, and spent 5 years learning classical art percussion. While in school, Thor played at many venues around Milwaukee: night clubs, festivals, concert halls, parties, weddings, and more. After school, Thor spent some years working as a musician, teaching and playing music. Thor had the great opportunity to play and record with many great Milwaukee artists, including Tyler Traband, The Dark Clan, The Love Is Loud, Tammy Ann Winn, KatieBeth, and others. In 2010, Thor released his first album, "Altitudes Catari Ariyasaccani" at the Miramar Theatre in Milwaukee. It is an all-instrumental album, featuring two long pieces. While the album was very well-received, Thor wanted to discover what he could do with vocal music, and began work on a vocal album. In 2011, Thor released "The Multitude" at Shank Hall. In January, 2012, Thor and his wife, violinist Stephanie Young, moved to Chicago, IL. Since moving to Chicago Thor has played in diverse groups such as: The Dennis Keith Experience, Zero to Zeno, About Nothin, and the Anila Sinha Foundation. In September, 2013, Thor also released his third album as a composer, arranger, lyricist, drummer, percussionist, singer, etc. It's called Great Stone Stories and can be found at CD Baby, iTunes, and Amazon. Thor is very excited to be in Chicago and at School of Rock, where he eagerly anticipates many new musical adventures!
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News

    • New Little Wing Class Times Added!

      Every Summer season, we choose a theme to link our shows together. It’s fun and challenging - two things we hope SoR always is for you. This summer, our theme is “Mixtapes”!!!??? What Is a ...
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      Every Summer season, we choose a theme to link our shows together. It’s fun and challenging - two things we hope SoR always is for you. This summer, our theme is “Mixtapes”!!!???


      What Is a Mixtape?

      Way back in time, it took hours of thought and effort to make a great mx of songs, or playlist. You had to sort all your records and tapes, choose a theme, pick songs and then go through the work of using tape to tape to create one cassette. A great mixtape had a thread - something that connected the songs. Oftentimes, the mixtape was made for someone else and the songs may have been about funny moments you shared or feelings you have. On a personal note, my brother and I have exchanged mixtapes and playlists for years. Sometime, we create secret connections and there is a “puzzle” to solve. It could be that all the songs had the same Producer. Maybe Side A was “songs about rain” and Side B was “songs about sunshine” This has become a bond over the years. This is what a mixtape is - a bond between creator and listener. It is a shared experience.

      In our case, the bond is extended: between Director and cast, between teacher and student. between musician and audience. We will turn our mixtapes into set lists!


      What Does This Mean For Our Season?

      We have Directors you love and trust. They have BIG IDEAS! Each Director will be creating a custom playlist FOR the cast they get. This is a mixtape for YOU! All of our Directors are professional musicians and lifelong music fans. Their love of music goes back farther than yours and they will be using all of their passion and experience to make their cast a mixtape! The Director will also get to have fun bringing their music taste into the mix!
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    • The Fall/Winter Shows have been Announced!!!

      We're excited to announce TWO new Little Wing class times for our Pre-Schoolers! Thursdays 4-4:45pm and Saturdays 11:15am-12pm. Call the school to schedule your free trial class today!

    • Check out what the press has to say about the Oak Park SOR Show team!!

      Kia Auto requested our Show Team to play the revealing ceremony of their new 2017 Niro Hybrid at the Chicago Auto Show!! They did an amazing job, and we are so proud!!

Testimonials

  • “School of Rock Oak Park has been a great experience for my two boys who attend. One of them is a complete introvert who has never stuck out in other extra-curricular activities, but he plays drums, and plays in the shows... It's kind of a miracle! I also love how excited the staff gets the kids about music, and the way they teach them to play in a band is amazing! THANK YOU!!”
    — Rocker Mom, Oak Park, IL
  • “My kids have learned what it is like to be a musician, an artist, a music collaborator. Because of the wide variety of musicians teaching, they can try out different approaches to playing, performing and creating music. As a parent, I find myself in a constant chorus of "I wish we had School of Rock when I was a kid!" ”
    — Music Loving Parent, Oak Park, IL
  • “My daughter is in Rock 101, and takes keyboard lessons with Steve...I love that your programs keep kids engaged and have an awesome community atmosphere. Rock 101 is great for team/band building, and fosters a love of music by introducing real, fun rock songs (not just classical scales!). ”
    — Rock Parent, Oak Park, IL
  • “The Adult Band teachers are so incredibly knowledgeable, inspiring and friendly. They're able to communicate technically and informally; their song selections bring back memories and turn me on to new music; the cast listings have all the band members in mind- each with our own preferences, abilities, and goals. I've met some great people, as we all love music, and are there to learn but still have a great time! ”
    — Grad School Student, Oak Park, IL