May 25
2:00 PM
Aitken Elementary School, Seekonk, MA
House band will be performing at 2pm as part of Creative Awareness Week!
School of Rock SeekonkMain Number(508) 557-0213(508) 557-0213
Main Number
(508) 557-0213(508) 557-0213
Breadcrumb Navigation
What's Going on at School of Rock Seekonk
News from School of Rock Seekonk
Sign Up For A Free Lesson
Contact Information, Hours and Basic Information for School of Rock Seekonk
About School of Rock Seekonk
Find your place in the music at School of Rock Seekonk. We have a unique approach to learning music that helps kids blossom in unimaginable ways. Students are not only being taught an instrument—they’re learning to deal with life situations, building confidence, and becoming better people.
At School of Rock Seekonk, learning music in a lesson room is just the beginning. We get kids playing on stage as quickly as possible, teaching them to play as soloists and as part of a team. This immersive method motivates them to be their best, helping them learn skills faster and more thoroughly.
As both rockers and educators, School of Rock Seekonk’s instructors are passionate about creating a legacy of music by helping your kids succeed in music and beyond. Visit School of Rock Seekonk today to learn more about our creative community.
At School of Rock Seekonk, learning music in a lesson room is just the beginning. We get kids playing on stage as quickly as possible, teaching them to play as soloists and as part of a team. This immersive method motivates them to be their best, helping them learn skills faster and more thoroughly.
As both rockers and educators, School of Rock Seekonk’s instructors are passionate about creating a legacy of music by helping your kids succeed in music and beyond. Visit School of Rock Seekonk today to learn more about our creative community.
Contact Information
School of Rock Seekonk
1295 Fall River Avenue
Seekonk, MA 02771
US
Main Number
(508) 557-0213(508) 557-0213
Hours of Operation
| Day of the Week | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday - Thursday | 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM |
| Friday | 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Connect with School of Rock Seekonk
Programs
Performance
School of Rock Seekonk's Performance Program is all about translating our students' abilities to play in the lesson room to performing for real on stage. In addition to refining their overall skill and proficiency as musicians, students learn what comes with being part of a band: teamwork, collaboration, and the special brand of fun that only comes from sharing awesome experiences with others.
Students learn, absorb, and perform iconic hits from some of history's greatest rock and roll performers including The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Van Halen, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin and many more. No matter what they perform, our students will learn incredible skills and enjoy epic experiences that will last a lifetime.
All students in Seekonk'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
• Real-life performances on stage at amazing venues
• Advanced instruction in fundamentals such as stage performance, harmonies, musicianship, and more
• Fun, music, and education wrapped into one all-inclusive experience!Rock 101
School of Rock Seekonk’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 Seekonk, 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 Seekonk’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
School of Rock Seekonk’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 Seekonk’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!Adult Program
At School of Rock Seekonk, we know how to bring the world of music, and the fun that comes with it, to adults. We get our students playing and learning at rapid-fire speeds through real performances of their favorite songs, instead of your old traditional music instruction programs with piles of sheet music and hours of rote memorization. At School of Rock Seekonk, the stage can be yours at any age.
Our adult students learn the fundamentals of music, including scales, chords, notes, progressions, and more, from real-world instruction through some of the most iconic songs and sounds in music history. Whatever your musical taste may be, our instructors know how to create a program just for you. Whether you’re seeking basic proficiency, a standing gig as the resident guitar player at parties, or future rock star status, School of Rock Seekonk works with you to help you reach your goals.
Students in School of Rock Seekonk’s Adult Program can expect:
• Fast-paced instruction on the instrument of your choice: guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and/or vocals
• Weekly private instruction catered to your goals and level of proficiency
• All-adult rehearsals to prepare for real performances in local venues
• A firm grasp of music theory and technique fundamentals, taught through your favorite music genre
• Fun, instruction, and great progression of practical skills wrapped all into one!Rookies
School of Rock Seekonk’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 Seekonk 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 Seekonk’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!Workshops
School of Rock Seekonk’s music workshops are designed to bring out the best performance in a fast-paced learning environment. Just like our standard programs, our workshops 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 workshops to more advanced Guitar Building and Songwriting Training, School of Rock offers opportunities for musicians of all skill levels. Workshops vary by location, so please contact us for a current list of workshops at School of Rock Seekonk.
Regardless of which workshop 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 Workshop
School of Rock Seekonk's Performance Program is all about translating our students' abilities to play in the lesson room to performing for real on stage. In addition to refining their overall skill and proficiency as musicians, students learn what comes with being part of a band: teamwork, collaboration, and the special brand of fun that only comes from sharing awesome experiences with others.
Students learn, absorb, and perform iconic hits from some of history's greatest rock and roll performers including The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Van Halen, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin and many more. No matter what they perform, our students will learn incredible skills and enjoy epic experiences that will last a lifetime.
All students in Seekonk'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
• Real-life performances on stage at amazing venues
• Advanced instruction in fundamentals such as stage performance, harmonies, musicianship, and more
• Fun, music, and education wrapped into one all-inclusive experience!
Students learn, absorb, and perform iconic hits from some of history's greatest rock and roll performers including The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Van Halen, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin and many more. No matter what they perform, our students will learn incredible skills and enjoy epic experiences that will last a lifetime.
All students in Seekonk'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
• Real-life performances on stage at amazing venues
• Advanced instruction in fundamentals such as stage performance, harmonies, musicianship, and more
• Fun, music, and education wrapped into one all-inclusive experience!
School of Rock Seekonk’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 Seekonk, 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 Seekonk’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!
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 Seekonk’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 Seekonk’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 Seekonk’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!
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 Seekonk’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!
At School of Rock Seekonk, we know how to bring the world of music, and the fun that comes with it, to adults. We get our students playing and learning at rapid-fire speeds through real performances of their favorite songs, instead of your old traditional music instruction programs with piles of sheet music and hours of rote memorization. At School of Rock Seekonk, the stage can be yours at any age.
Our adult students learn the fundamentals of music, including scales, chords, notes, progressions, and more, from real-world instruction through some of the most iconic songs and sounds in music history. Whatever your musical taste may be, our instructors know how to create a program just for you. Whether you’re seeking basic proficiency, a standing gig as the resident guitar player at parties, or future rock star status, School of Rock Seekonk works with you to help you reach your goals.
Students in School of Rock Seekonk’s Adult Program can expect:
• Fast-paced instruction on the instrument of your choice: guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and/or vocals
• Weekly private instruction catered to your goals and level of proficiency
• All-adult rehearsals to prepare for real performances in local venues
• A firm grasp of music theory and technique fundamentals, taught through your favorite music genre
• Fun, instruction, and great progression of practical skills wrapped all into one!
Our adult students learn the fundamentals of music, including scales, chords, notes, progressions, and more, from real-world instruction through some of the most iconic songs and sounds in music history. Whatever your musical taste may be, our instructors know how to create a program just for you. Whether you’re seeking basic proficiency, a standing gig as the resident guitar player at parties, or future rock star status, School of Rock Seekonk works with you to help you reach your goals.
Students in School of Rock Seekonk’s Adult Program can expect:
• Fast-paced instruction on the instrument of your choice: guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and/or vocals
• Weekly private instruction catered to your goals and level of proficiency
• All-adult rehearsals to prepare for real performances in local venues
• A firm grasp of music theory and technique fundamentals, taught through your favorite music genre
• Fun, instruction, and great progression of practical skills wrapped all into one!
School of Rock Seekonk’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 Seekonk 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 Seekonk’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!
With exercises, tools and games customized to their age group, our Seekonk 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 Seekonk’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!
School of Rock Seekonk’s music workshops are designed to bring out the best performance in a fast-paced learning environment. Just like our standard programs, our workshops 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 workshops to more advanced Guitar Building and Songwriting Training, School of Rock offers opportunities for musicians of all skill levels. Workshops vary by location, so please contact us for a current list of workshops at School of Rock Seekonk.
Regardless of which workshop 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 experience
Find a WorkshopFrom basic Performance workshops to more advanced Guitar Building and Songwriting Training, School of Rock offers opportunities for musicians of all skill levels. Workshops vary by location, so please contact us for a current list of workshops at School of Rock Seekonk.
Regardless of which workshop 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 experience
Upcoming Events View All
- June 103:00 PMSeasonal Performance Shows at PVD Fest, Providence, RIDetails tba
- June 155:00 PMBlock Island Music Festival, Block Island, RIHouse band returns to the Block Island Music Festival for the third year in a row. They will perform outside on the deck of Captain Nick's at 5pm!
- July 153:00 PMHeritageFest, East Providence, RIHouse band performing as part of HeritageFest at Pierce Field, 201 Mercer Street, East Providence, RI from 3:45 to 4:45pm. All ages, free admission.
- July 316:30 PMSonia, Cambridge, MAOur house band will perform along with 2018 School of Rock AllStars Team 6!
- August 1112:00 PMAttleboro Elks, Attleboro, MAHouse band performing 12-1:30pm
- August 156:00 PMWarren Summer Concert Series, Warren, RIHouse band performing outside at Burr's Hill Park in Warren 6-9pm!
- September 911:30 AMNarrows Festival of the Arts, Fall River, MAHouse band is kicking off the Narrows Festival of the Arts at The Narrows Center at 11:30am!
View All
Take a tour of School of Rock to see how our approach to music education teaches kids to rock their worlds.
Staff View All
SHAWN GARRITYOwner/General ManagerShawn'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. 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 RODDICKMusic DirectorScott started playing music at the age of ten. He studied jazz and classical music at Rhode Island College, and holds a Bachelors Degree in Music Composition. Scott has played in several groups thr...Scott started playing music at the age of ten. He studied jazz and classical music at Rhode Island College, and holds a Bachelors Degree in Music Composition. Scott has played in several groups throughout New England. Currently he plays with Hungry Freaks, Interplay, and Take It To The Bridge. He has toured nationally and recorded on three studio albums with Gavin Castleton. Some of his musical influences are, Mr. Bungle, St. Vincent, TV On The Radio, and Primus.
ASHLEY VICTORIAVocal InstructorAshley is a top vocalist in the New England area with an education from Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. She performs all over New England sharing the stage with national acts such as Chris ...Ashley is a top vocalist in the New England area with an education from Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. She performs all over New England sharing the stage with national acts such as Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, and Ginuwine. A pure professional in the industry with a wealth of knowledge on how to be successful in the music business. She's currently a member of The Back Beat Band and also performs with the band Reasons.
KEVIN WILLIAMSGuitar & Bass InstructorKevin has well over 20 years of performing and teaching experience. He has had music featured on cable networks like The Discovery Channel, the BET network, and others and is best known as a blazi...Kevin has well over 20 years of performing and teaching experience. He has had music featured on cable networks like The Discovery Channel, the BET network, and others and is best known as a blazing blues guitarist with Worcester, MA based contemporary R&B act Blue Honey and his rocking blues combo The Kevin Williams Trio. He has toured and performed internationally and has been featured on several recordings as a guitarist, vocalist, bassist, keyboardist, and as a producer.
JOHN VAUGHANBass InstructorJohn is one of the top bass players in New England. By way of Jacksonville, FL he is an accomplished artist having worked for Sony and Dreamworks and a well known producer in the Southern New Engla...John is one of the top bass players in New England. By way of Jacksonville, FL he is an accomplished artist having worked for Sony and Dreamworks and a well known producer in the Southern New England area. John has played with such artists as Smokey Robinson, Johnny Gill, Jeffrey Osborn, and Parliament to just name a few.
JAKE HEADYVocal & Piano InstructorJake attended the Booker High School's VPA Music program as a vocal major. While there, he participated in the undefeated, nationally recognized Vocal Jazz ensemble, winning the Berklee High School...Jake attended the Booker High School's VPA Music program as a vocal major. While there, he participated in the undefeated, nationally recognized Vocal Jazz ensemble, winning the Berklee High School Jazz Fest for the 7th year in a row. Upon graduation, Jake attended Berklee College of Music as a Vocal Major and a Piano minor. He arranged and performed for several different ensembles throughout his time there. Jake then transferred to Rhode Island College, where he pursued his degree in Music Education with a Jazz Studies minor, and a concentration in voice. After Rhode Island College, Jake spent the next few years performing with several groups throughout the east coast, performing with such musicians as John Blackwell, Phil Magallenas, R.LUM.R, Rodney Roqous, Johnny Walker, and more. Jake now teaches, arranges, and performs throughout New England.
MIKE MURDOCKDrum InstructorMike is a graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA, and has also studied at the University of Rhode Island. During his college years, Mike studied with several noteworthy educators. Some...Mike is a graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA, and has also studied at the University of Rhode Island. During his college years, Mike studied with several noteworthy educators. Some of which include rock heavyweights Rod Morgenstein and Mike Mangini, and Jazz/Latin greats Mark Walker and Neal Smith, among several others. Since graduating, Mike has been performing and teaching throughout New England.
ERIC SHEPPARDDrum InstructorEric began playing drums at the age of 9, focusing mainly in both rock and metal. He has many years of experience as a live performer, playing for multiple metal and rock bands, as well as performi...Eric began playing drums at the age of 9, focusing mainly in both rock and metal. He has many years of experience as a live performer, playing for multiple metal and rock bands, as well as performing with hip hop acts. Eric is also a studio drummer, being featured on more than 25 recordings. Songs he has performed on have been featured on both 107.3/97.7 WAAF and 100.7 WZLX. His drumming skills focus on not only the technical side, but knowing when to play for the song.
DANILO HENRIQUEZDrum, Piano & Trumpet InstructorDanilo is a multi-instrumentalist originally from Long Island. He holds a degree in trumpet performance from the New England Conservatory of Music. As a performer, Danilo has played a wide variety ...Danilo is a multi-instrumentalist originally from Long Island. He holds a degree in trumpet performance from the New England Conservatory of Music. As a performer, Danilo has played a wide variety of styles at some of the most premier stages across the USA and internationally. Some highlights include Bonnaroo, Montreal Jazz Festival, New Orleans Jazz Festival, The Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, Jordan Hall and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. Danilo has performed with critically acclaimed groups: David Wax Museum, Debo Band, Rubblebucket and The Superpowers. As an educator, he has been teaching drums, trumpet, piano, voice and music theory since 2004. He was invited as a guest artist/educator to the Afghanistan National Institute of Music in Kabul, Afghanistan and has studied Ewe drumming in Ghana, West Africa.
JON PELZMANGuitar, Bass & Ukulele InstructorJon grew up in New York City and started playing piano at age 5. By the time he was 7, he became smitten by the guitar and at 9 years old, joined his first band, The Galaxies. By age 12, he had alr...Jon grew up in New York City and started playing piano at age 5. By the time he was 7, he became smitten by the guitar and at 9 years old, joined his first band, The Galaxies. By age 12, he had already played at the famous Café Wha? In New York’s Greenwich Village, four months before a then unknown guitarist by the name of Jimi Hendrix was discovered there. Jon has played in bands ever since.
“Growing up in New York in the 60’s and 70’s was an amazing time for young musicians. I got to see Led Zeppelin and Janis Joplin at Madison Square Garden, Black Sabbath at the Fillmore East on their first US tour when Ozzy was 19 and countless other mega bands.” Saturday afternoons were spent with his band mates on Manhattan’s 48 th Street (“Music Row”) at stores like Manny’s and Sam Ash long before big box music stores ruled the world ogling all the newest guitars and amps as well as seeing the occasional rock star.
In 1980, Jon moved to Rhode Island and has since played in a plethora of local bands including disco, classic rock, originals, Top 40, wedding and country groups and currently is the guitarist in the popular wedding/function band “Image” as well as being a first call “A list” sub for a host of groups in Southern New England, playing an average of 75 gigs a year. “Playing in a variety of bands has required that I learn lots of styles of music from classic rock to jazz to country and pop.”
His biggest influences have been Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton and Ritchie Blackmore from Deep Purple and currently, you can find him listening to varied artists from The Jimmy Herring Band to Bruno Mars for inspiration. The venue he relishes playing in the most is the Providence Performing Art Center when he rocks out at the yearly sold-out “Chance to Dance” recital, an elementary school dance and musical production that he’s done for the last six years. And as of late, Jon’s taken up ukulele and added that to his arsenal of stringed instruments.
AVA GAUDETVocal InstructorAva has been working professionally as a singer and actor for all of her adult life. She is a graduate of Berklee College of Music where she was a Professional Music major. She appeared in the Broa...Ava has been working professionally as a singer and actor for all of her adult life. She is a graduate of Berklee College of Music where she was a Professional Music major. She appeared in the Broadway and National Touring Productions of RENT, in the principle role of “Maureen” before moving to Los Angeles where she performed regularly throughout LA in the popular cabaret circuit, as well as working in Film & Television with guest appearances on Ugly Betty, N.C.I.S, Private Practice, The Exes, and Mike & Molly to name a few. She also originated the role of “Boudicca” in the brand new heavy metal musical, Queen Boudicca: A Metal Opera. She’s currently singing regularly in the premiere event band, The Sultans of Swing, performing in some of New England, New York, and Florida’s most exclusive venues. More at www.avagaudet.com
JEANNE THIBAULTPiano & Vocal InstructorJeanne’s interest in music began at the age of seven listening to her Mom sing in the church choir. She started private classical piano lessons by the age of eight and at sixteen formed her first...Jeanne’s interest in music began at the age of seven listening to her Mom sing in the church choir. She started private classical piano lessons by the age of eight and at sixteen formed her first rock band where she played keyboards and sang lead. Over the next decade Jeanne traveled with several different bands while touring the East Coast and then spent a year playing in the renowned French Quarter in New Orleans. Upon returning to the New England area, her band “The Fashion” performed for several Chrysalis and Arista recording company showcases at The Channel nightclub in Boston. Most notably opening for Pat Benatar, Robin Lane and The Chartbusters and Aerosmith. Jeanne also recorded an EP with a band called “English” while playing full-time in southern New England with the popular band, “Fallen Angel”, which was the only group in the area at that time with three female musicians/vocalists.
Testimonials
“The in-depth one on one teaching combined with real life activities makes this a one of a kind experience that motivates you to work hard to showcase your newly developed abilities!”
- Kristy, West Warwick, RI“I have seen my daughter grow to appreciate music so much so that she plays three different instruments. Since attending the school for a little over 2 1/2 years, she has been more outgoing and developed friendships with her band!! She also has improved in school where she consistently gets 4’s in music!! I would recommend the school to any child that wants to learn and experience music!!”
- Luis, Riverside, RI“My granddaughter started drum lessons last June. Since that time her self esteem has improved as well as a positive attitude about her capabilities. The praise, motivation and encouragement that she has received has been not only a positive thing for her improving on the drums, but also for her personal growth. I recommend School of Rock highly to anyone that has a child that would like to try their hand at an instrument; I have only the highest regard for all the teachers as well as the way things are run all in all. You have my vote 10 all the way!!!”
- Denise, Riverside, RI“What I like about your programs is that my grandson loves the experience and knowledge of music he is acquiring week by week at SOR. He loves being in his band (the Screamers), he loves his director and instructor (Scott), he is gaining more confidence in his ability and the whole experience is a great break for him from the everyday nuances of growing up.”
- Alan, Dartmouth, MA“The strength of the School of Rock Seekonk comes from the quality of its ownership and instructors. The SOR teaching philosophy is to provide practical, performance based training. These folks are educated, well trained, working musicians who provide expert, practical lessons. More importantly, they are nice people who are a pleasure to work with. Life began when we walked into the School of Rock Seekonk.”
- Matt, East Providence, RI“School of Rock has made my dreams of playing music come true. It is a positive, fun, environment and the teachers are amazing. They will show you how to play your favorite songs with simple instruction. The rest is up to you to do the work, but that comes easy as the progress you see each week fuels the fire to continue on and grow. I highly recommend School of Rock Seekonk.”
- Alex, Attleboro, MA“Where do I begin...... You have formed a family. The bonds formed between the kids. The bonds formed between the parents. The many spawned bands. Be very proud. I have never experienced anything like this in any youth organization. The "coaches" are amazing examples for the kids. Positive, talented, organized, engaged, etc, etc, etc. You have recruited the best and most talented array of artists I've ever witnessed. Plus they are good people. There is no place I'd rather send any of my children. I know they are in good hands. Thank you for all you do.”
- Mike, Fall River, MA“The instructors are the real heart and soul of the place. In addition to their musical acumen, they care enough to take the time to teach the students critical life lessons like teamwork, patience, perseverance and respect for others and oneself to name a few. The Performance sessions are particularly appealing because they afford the student the unique opportunity and discipline to practice weekly as a group and to eventually earn the privilege to perform on stage in a show.”
- Lisa, Seekonk, MA“My son has been taking guitar lesson here for about two years. The guitar lessons he had previously been taking at his private school were very boring. But from his first lesson at School of Rock he was learning to play the music HE liked (the instructors' first question was all about which bands/artists/genres he was into). My son was shy at first and didn't "hang out" with the other teens there, but gradually became more comfortable being one of the regulars. He also just started playing in a band there with other students, with 1.5 hr rehearsals on the weekend that he really looks forward to. It has been great to see him grow in his technique, find a clique of people he relates to, and have fun making music. The staff have all been very helpful with me with scheduling issues. I've appreciated how they've prodded him to push himself just ahead of his comfort zone. And I like listening to Jimi Hendrix again on the car ride home :)”
- Nicole, Fairhaven, MA