$50 OFF FIRST MONTH
For a limited time, get $50 OFF on your first month with the School of Rock. This coupon applies to group programs only, Rookies, Rock 101, and Performance Program. New students only. Must reference coupon code: 50OFF.
School of Rock Virginia BeachMain Number(757) 227-5797(757) 227-5797
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(757) 227-5797(757) 227-5797
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About School of Rock Virginia Beach
Welcome to School of Rock Virginia Beach, where students learn to rock their worlds. Perfectly poised in the heart of Virginia Beach’s bustling music ecosystem, School of Rock Virginia Beach has the right teachers, instruments, and programs your student needs to jam their way to success.
School of Rock isn’t just about creating killer musicians with a lasting love for all things rock. Because life isn’t a solo act, we’re equally focused on creating awesome bands of friends and musicians. We’re as much about orchestrating a community in Virginia Beach full of cool experiences as we are about building confidence, extraordinary teamwork, and achieving excellence through our unique teaching method.
Everyone deserves to feel like a rock star. Welcome to a place where students learn to create face-melting music while developing the skills they need to do so much more.
School of Rock isn’t just about creating killer musicians with a lasting love for all things rock. Because life isn’t a solo act, we’re equally focused on creating awesome bands of friends and musicians. We’re as much about orchestrating a community in Virginia Beach full of cool experiences as we are about building confidence, extraordinary teamwork, and achieving excellence through our unique teaching method.
Everyone deserves to feel like a rock star. Welcome to a place where students learn to create face-melting music while developing the skills they need to do so much more.
Contact Information
School of Rock Virginia Beach
1552 Mill Dam Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
US
Main Number
(757) 227-5797(757) 227-5797
Hours of Operation
| Day of the Week | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday - Thursday | 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Connect with School of Rock Virginia Beach
Programs
Performance
School of Rock Virginia Beach'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 Virginia Beach'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 Virginia Beach’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 Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach’s Rock 101 Program can expect:
• Weekly private music lessons on guitar, bass, keyboard, drums, and/or vocals
• Weekly group rehearsals to reinforce the fundamentals in a team environment
• A firm grasp of the basics of music theory and technique
• An understanding of what it means to play solo and in a group
• Real knowledge gained through real fun!AllStars
Our top performers can audition for School of Rock Virginia Beach’s most prestigious honor: a spot in our AllStars program! School of Rock’s AllStars represent the best of the best from School of Rock’s global network of schools and students. Equipped with incredible musical abilities, killer work ethics and leadership skills, our AllStars have the talent and drive to grow into the next generation of musical greats.
Every summer, our AllStars embark on an authentic concert tour for a one-of-a-kind experience. Our Virginia Beach musicians perform with All Star bands in multiple live shows at high-profile venues 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 and learn from music legends like Alice Cooper, Eddie Vedder, and Slash, to name a few. The AllStars experience gives aspiring musicians the best glimpse of what a professional music career is like.
AllStars selected from School of Rock Virginia Beach can expect:
• Real-world performances where they can master their skills on guitar, bass, drums, keyboard and/or vocals
• An authentic tour experience with multiple live shows in various cities
• Taking the stage with the best of the best from School of Rock’s global community
• A chance to perform at legendary events and venues, side-by-side with top artists
• A truly epic rock experience like no other!Adult Program
School of Rock Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach’s Adult Program can expect:
• Fast-paced instruction in one of our great musical offerings: guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and/or vocals
• Weekly private instruction catered to your goals and level of proficiency
• Rehearsals with others just like you to get ready for real shows at live music venues
• An understanding of music theory and technique fundamentals, learned through songs from your favorite music genre
• Fun, instruction, and a great progression of practical skills wrapped all into one!Rookies
School of Rock Virginia Beach’s Rookies Program is designed for first and second graders to provide a fun introduction to music fundamentals. Among other tools, we use proprietary setups for guitar, bass, drums and keyboard to provide a gateway to understanding music. The skills and passion for music that we teach our students gets them ready for Rock 101 and a lasting appreciation for music.
Our Virginia Beach Rookies learn the fundamental concepts of pitch, rhythm, form and dynamics with age-appropriate exercises, tools and games. We encourage our students to explore a variety of instruments and play styles so they can get familiar with all parts of the musical landscape; even the most incredible solo guitar players or drummers need to understand how the rest of the band works together.
All students in Virginia Beach’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!Little Wing
At School of Rock Virginia Beach, we teach preschoolers in our Little Wing Program the creativity, confidence, and knowledge they need to grow into life-long lovers and practitioners of music. Music is the gateway to childrens’ growth, whether it’s in the form of great friendships from shared musical experiences or the joy of hearing an inspirational song for the first time.
Our Little Wing students at Virginia Beach enjoy a unique variety of music-minded games based on some of the most popular music in rock and roll history. Through great music and a foundation of fun, our students refine their motor skills, coordination, pre-literacy, and group cooperation in a safe and inclusive environment.
Young rockers in Virginia Beach’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!Camps
School of Rock Virginia Beach’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 Virginia Beach.
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
School of Rock Virginia Beach'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 Virginia Beach'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 Virginia Beach'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 Virginia Beach’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 Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach’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 Virginia Beach’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!
Our top performers can audition for School of Rock Virginia Beach’s most prestigious honor: a spot in our AllStars program! School of Rock’s AllStars represent the best of the best from School of Rock’s global network of schools and students. Equipped with incredible musical abilities, killer work ethics and leadership skills, our AllStars have the talent and drive to grow into the next generation of musical greats.
Every summer, our AllStars embark on an authentic concert tour for a one-of-a-kind experience. Our Virginia Beach musicians perform with All Star bands in multiple live shows at high-profile venues 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 and learn from music legends like Alice Cooper, Eddie Vedder, and Slash, to name a few. The AllStars experience gives aspiring musicians the best glimpse of what a professional music career is like.
AllStars selected from School of Rock Virginia Beach can expect:
• Real-world performances where they can master their skills on guitar, bass, drums, keyboard and/or vocals
• An authentic tour experience with multiple live shows in various cities
• Taking the stage with the best of the best from School of Rock’s global community
• A chance to perform at legendary events and venues, side-by-side with top artists
• A truly epic rock experience like no other!
Every summer, our AllStars embark on an authentic concert tour for a one-of-a-kind experience. Our Virginia Beach musicians perform with All Star bands in multiple live shows at high-profile venues 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 and learn from music legends like Alice Cooper, Eddie Vedder, and Slash, to name a few. The AllStars experience gives aspiring musicians the best glimpse of what a professional music career is like.
AllStars selected from School of Rock Virginia Beach can expect:
• Real-world performances where they can master their skills on guitar, bass, drums, keyboard and/or vocals
• An authentic tour experience with multiple live shows in various cities
• Taking the stage with the best of the best from School of Rock’s global community
• A chance to perform at legendary events and venues, side-by-side with top artists
• A truly epic rock experience like no other!
School of Rock Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach’s Adult Program can expect:
• Fast-paced instruction in one of our great musical offerings: guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and/or vocals
• Weekly private instruction catered to your goals and level of proficiency
• Rehearsals with others just like you to get ready for real shows at live music venues
• An understanding of music theory and technique fundamentals, learned through songs from your favorite music genre
• Fun, instruction, and a great progression of practical skills wrapped all into one!
Our 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 Virginia Beach’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 Virginia Beach’s Rookies Program is designed for first and second graders to provide a fun introduction to music fundamentals. Among other tools, we use proprietary setups for guitar, bass, drums and keyboard to provide a gateway to understanding music. The skills and passion for music that we teach our students gets them ready for Rock 101 and a lasting appreciation for music.
Our Virginia Beach Rookies learn the fundamental concepts of pitch, rhythm, form and dynamics with age-appropriate exercises, tools and games. We encourage our students to explore a variety of instruments and play styles so they can get familiar with all parts of the musical landscape; even the most incredible solo guitar players or drummers need to understand how the rest of the band works together.
All students in Virginia Beach’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 Virginia Beach Rookies learn the fundamental concepts of pitch, rhythm, form and dynamics with age-appropriate exercises, tools and games. We encourage our students to explore a variety of instruments and play styles so they can get familiar with all parts of the musical landscape; even the most incredible solo guitar players or drummers need to understand how the rest of the band works together.
All students in Virginia Beach’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!
At School of Rock Virginia Beach, we teach preschoolers in our Little Wing Program the creativity, confidence, and knowledge they need to grow into life-long lovers and practitioners of music. Music is the gateway to childrens’ growth, whether it’s in the form of great friendships from shared musical experiences or the joy of hearing an inspirational song for the first time.
Our Little Wing students at Virginia Beach enjoy a unique variety of music-minded games based on some of the most popular music in rock and roll history. Through great music and a foundation of fun, our students refine their motor skills, coordination, pre-literacy, and group cooperation in a safe and inclusive environment.
Young rockers in Virginia Beach’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!
Our Little Wing students at Virginia Beach enjoy a unique variety of music-minded games based on some of the most popular music in rock and roll history. Through great music and a foundation of fun, our students refine their motor skills, coordination, pre-literacy, and group cooperation in a safe and inclusive environment.
Young rockers in Virginia Beach’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 Virginia Beach’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 Virginia Beach.
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 experience
Find a Camp or WorkshopFrom 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 Virginia Beach.
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 experience
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
Cary GrecoDrum InstructorCary Greco is a Virginia Beach native and was a member of the Kempsville High School marching band. Later, Cary was a drumline and drumset instructor - teaching hundreds of students over the years....Cary Greco is a Virginia Beach native and was a member of the Kempsville High School marching band. Later, Cary was a drumline and drumset instructor - teaching hundreds of students over the years. More recently, Cary has made a name for himself as the drummer for the Deloreans, one of the East Coast's hottest party bands. As a drummer who gigs several times a week, Cary is excited about seeing his students use solid fundamental training to conquer the stage!
Casey CopelandVocal InstructorCasey Copeland, a talented violinist, singer and piano player, is from Virginia Beach. Casey has performed at many venues throughout Virginia. Weekly, Casey performs at the Rising Church, at the No...Casey Copeland, a talented violinist, singer and piano player, is from Virginia Beach. Casey has performed at many venues throughout Virginia. Weekly, Casey performs at the Rising Church, at the Norva. She's working independently on an EP.
Daniel BrunnerRookies / Keys / Guitar / Bass / VocalsDaniel Brunner has been playing bass since the age of 11 and guitar since 13. Daniel was also formally taught on saxophone in middle and high school. His first major influence was ska and reggae b...Daniel Brunner has been playing bass since the age of 11 and guitar since 13. Daniel was also formally taught on saxophone in middle and high school. His first major influence was ska and reggae basslines, but then Daniel made what he calls one of the most important decisions of his life - buying Led Zeppelin: Early Days and Latter Days. Everything was about guitar and playing better from that point on so much of his playing and soloing is informed by Jimmy Page.
Daniel also plays drums and piano, and he's adept at most instruments. His next challenge is learning cello and trumpet. Daniel's wide-ranging musical talents make him the perfect instructor for Rookies - our group music class for 6 and 7-year-olds. Daniel loves seeing the excitement in the kids' faces when they master a song or when they can tell us everything they know about music. Seeing how jazzed they are is really rewarding.
When he's not rocking out at the School of Rock, Daniel tours and performs with Kishi Bashi, including a performance on the Late Show before David Letterman retired.
Eric LonningOwner / General ManagerSchool of Rock Virginia Beach is owned by Eric Lonning, a life-long Virginia Beach resident. Throughout his childhood, Eric took guitar and drum lessons, played in bands, and had success touring an...School of Rock Virginia Beach is owned by Eric Lonning, a life-long Virginia Beach resident. Throughout his childhood, Eric took guitar and drum lessons, played in bands, and had success touring and recording with a great group of friends and bandmates. Later, Eric pursued a career in marketing before returning to music with School of Rock. Eric's mission is to create a music school where students will become outstanding musicians, but more importantly, inspiring and amazing individuals. Eric went to nearby First Colonial High School and attended Wake Forest University where we studied Communication and Religion.
Harrison BoundsGuitar, Bass, KeysAs a child Harrison was infatuated with music. Classically trained on the piano as a child, in high school Harrison went on to learn the six string guitar and bass. In college he realized his passi...As a child Harrison was infatuated with music. Classically trained on the piano as a child, in high school Harrison went on to learn the six string guitar and bass. In college he realized his passion was music and it became his career goal. To help achieve that goal he graduated from Old Dominion University with a degree in Music Business and Production. Harrison performs frequently and has become a sought after performer in the regional music scene as a solo artist and as a member of The Special Guests.
Holly MilnerStudio CoordinatorHolly Milner was born and raised in Norfolk and was instilled with a love for music at a very early age. She began playing the piano at age 3 and the violin at 10, and is a passionate collector of ...Holly Milner was born and raised in Norfolk and was instilled with a love for music at a very early age. She began playing the piano at age 3 and the violin at 10, and is a passionate collector of vinyl. She worked for Red Bull for four years as a member of the Wiiings Team, and currently still does marketing as a Team Lead for MKTG INC.
Holly has over 8 years of experience at School of Rock and joined the Virginia Beach school in 2018. She feels lucky every day to have found an environment combining her two favorite things: helping kids and rock music!
Jake SmallMusic DirectorJake is the School of Rock's resident "mad scientist" with degrees from the University of Virginia in Music and Physics. Jake has been playing live music for close to a decade and has extensive exp...Jake is the School of Rock's resident "mad scientist" with degrees from the University of Virginia in Music and Physics. Jake has been playing live music for close to a decade and has extensive experience teaching music.
Jake began at School of Rock when the Virginia Beach location opened, and quickly moved from a guitar instructor, to Rock 101 instructor, and Show Director. Jake has experience working with all age groups at School of Rock. As Music Director, Jake creates a safe and engaging environment for students to achieve their musical and creative potential.
You can catch Jake's band, Pretty Ugly, playing throughout Virginia Beach, and they recently released their first album. Jacob is passionate about sharing his touring and recording experience with musicians of all levels.
Joe GravesGuitar / Rock 101Virginia Beach native, Joe "Whitebread" Graves, has been playing guitar as long as he can remember. Joe formed his first band at First Colonial High School, and went on to record several albums and...Virginia Beach native, Joe "Whitebread" Graves, has been playing guitar as long as he can remember. Joe formed his first band at First Colonial High School, and went on to record several albums and play extensively around Hampton Roads. Joe loves working with School of Rock's Rock 101 students. He is so happy to see that rock and roll is alive and well, and he loves inspiring the next generation of rockers!
Johnny SmallwoodVocals / GuitarJohnny Smallwood has done it all in the music business! Johnny's musical journey began with formal training in vocals and concert saxophone. Later, Johnny moved his focus to guitar and became an ac...Johnny Smallwood has done it all in the music business! Johnny's musical journey began with formal training in vocals and concert saxophone. Later, Johnny moved his focus to guitar and became an accomplished guitarist and singer in a variety of bands (Gasoline, Knuckle, Mindset). For over 20 years, Johnny performed and recorded original rock music. Johnny was signed to Universal records for 6 years and sold over 50,000 albums.
Performing is nothing new to Johnny, as his bands have shared the stage with Judas Priest, Incubus, Sevendust, Fuel, Clutch, Nothingface, Stuck Mojo, Rancid, Offspring, Bush, Joan Jett, and Carbon Leaf. For the past eight years, Johnny has been the guitarist and singer of Vinyl Headlights, chosen as the top wedding band by Virginia Living Magazine four years in a row. Johnny lives and breathes music, performing over 200 times a year.
Johnny has achieved great success in his music career and was attracted to School of Rock's music program as a way to use his immense gifts to give back to his community. He's passionate about giving his vocal and guitar students a serious education in music theory and performance. As a resident of Great Neck, he also enjoys his one-minute commute to work!
Kyle FolsomGuitar / VocalsKyle Folsom has been rocking the Virginia Beach music scene for 10 years! Kyle performs as a vocalist and lead guitar player with several projects including his original band, Woodwork, and a crowd...Kyle Folsom has been rocking the Virginia Beach music scene for 10 years! Kyle performs as a vocalist and lead guitar player with several projects including his original band, Woodwork, and a crowd-favorite Grateful Dead cover band, Last Fair Deal. Kyle enjoys being able to share his love of music past and present to inspire his students to grow as guitarists and vocalists.
Matt SmithDrum InstructorKnown as one of the best jazz stylistic & versatile drummers in Hampton Roads, Matt has also played over twenty years in South Florida in various genres ranging from Brazilian Jazz and Big Band Swi...Known as one of the best jazz stylistic & versatile drummers in Hampton Roads, Matt has also played over twenty years in South Florida in various genres ranging from Brazilian Jazz and Big Band Swing to musicals such as Chicago, and is distinguished to be the only local musician to play with the Key West Symphony. Heralding from Union, NJ and a musical family, his earliest influence was his mother who sang solo contralto at Carnegie Hall and taught him piano at age seven. He later studied drums with acclaimed drummers Gene Thayler, Gerald Carlyss and Joe LaBarbera, He served in the U.S. Army Band six years and played in S.Korea for U.S. President Ronald Reagan and more recently with jazz greats such as Bill Watrous, Johnny O'Neal, Tamir Hendelman, Bill Porter, and Grammy Award winner Roseanna Vitro. Matt also played alongside other critically acclaimed artists Otis Blackwell, Dave Pike, Ron Delp, Lonnie Jacobson, Brian Murphy, Dana Paul, Nicole Henry, Nicole Yarling, Steve Ahern, Jennifer Gammill, Elizabeth Joy Turrell and David Kreiselman. Matt enjoys bringing his diverse background to ROCK with students at the School of Rock.
Nate SacksGuitar / Keys / Vocal Instructor / Show DirectorNate Sacks is an award-winning singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia. In high school, Nate attended the Governor's School for the Arts, studying jazz saxo...Nate Sacks is an award-winning singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia. In high school, Nate attended the Governor's School for the Arts, studying jazz saxophone, and continued his jazz-centric studies at Old Dominion University, graduating with a BA in Music. He has worked in music summer camps from the early age of 14 and has been teaching ever since. While his education was primarily in jazz, Nate's writing has a guitar-driven alternative rock feel with an indie-folk undertone. As a session-player, he has experience playing in many bands with varying genres and styles. Nate can play almost any instrument he picks up and he attributes this to the advanced Music Theory and Ear Training he endured in Old Dominion's music program. Nate was a finalist in the Sea Level Emerging Artist Contest 3 years in a row, and was the winner in 2012. Since then he has been featured on radio and TV shows including Paul Shugrue's Out of the Box, Hunter at Sunrise, and the Hampton Roads Show. Nate worked as a show director and instructor at the Norfolk School of Rock for several years before transferring to the Virginia Beach school in 2018.
Ross KingBass / Guitar / Rock 101Ross King is a professional musician with over 40 years experience writing, recording, and performing as a bass guitarist and singer. You can see Ross throughout Hampton Roads performing with the ...Ross King is a professional musician with over 40 years experience writing, recording, and performing as a bass guitarist and singer. You can see Ross throughout Hampton Roads performing with the Johnny Smallwood Acoustic Duo, Mark Dunn Trio, Little Country Band, Damn Straight, Mack's Daddy Band, Cody Austin Band along with other varied performance and recording opportunities.
Ross was born and raised in Virginia and loves giving back to the music scene here in Virginia Beach.
Zach BridgesKeyboard / Vocal InstructorZach Bridges is an accomplished pianist and keyboard player specializing in rock, independent jazz, pop, and commercial music composition, arranging, production, performance, and education. Zac...Zach Bridges is an accomplished pianist and keyboard player specializing in rock, independent jazz, pop, and commercial music composition, arranging, production, performance, and education.
Zach can be seen performing with Chesapeake-based classic rock band The Karma Kings.
In addition to his work with Karma Kings, Zach performs with a variety of R&B and jazz artists throughout Hampton Roads.
Zach has studied music extensively, particularly during his military service. He has completed several Berklee music courses and participated in DC-based Jazz Band Master Classes under Jeff Antoniuk. Zach is passionate about giving each student the tools to be a great performer!
Windle McFlyVocals / Keys / GuitarWindle McFly is a talented vocalist, pianist, and guitar player. As a member of the Deloreans, Windle is well known in the Virginia Beach music scene as a seasoned musician and performer. Windle be...Windle McFly is a talented vocalist, pianist, and guitar player. As a member of the Deloreans, Windle is well known in the Virginia Beach music scene as a seasoned musician and performer. Windle began his musical journey as a child, traveling throughout the western US as a member of a traveling vocal group. From there, Windle has performed everything from pop to punk rock.
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View AllRock and Roll Party
The School of Rock offers parties for rock stars from ages 3 and up! We teach people of all ages and musical capabilities to make music together. School of Rock’s Rock and Roll Party is a perfect...The School of Rock offers parties for rock stars from ages 3 and up! We teach people of all ages and musical capabilities to make music together.
School of Rock’s Rock and Roll Party is a perfect event for your get together. Our professional music teachers will introduce party goers to popular rock songs, teach individuals (regardless of musical experience) to sing the song or play an instrument, and perhaps even perform the song together as the highlight of the party!
All parties include:
- School of Rock staff: 2 qualified music instructors and birthday party organizer
- One hour of organized, instructor-led, age appropriate music activities
- Full access to our 3,500 sq. ft. music school
- Setup and cleanup
- Paper goods
Parties start at $325. Call today for a tour of our school!
Testimonials
“I like that the kids work together as a group and individually. I like that the program promotes kindness and acceptance. My kid has a blast and feels a lot of pride being a part of the School of Rock.”
- Helen, Virginia Beach, VA“They really care about what they learn and how they are learning. Making sure they are interested in the instrument they choose to learn and keep them interested when the student gets discouraged.”
- Jacqueline, Virginia Beach, VA“Quality of instruction, level of enthusiasm and overall experience are top notch. Our 14yrold is experiencing all the aspects of putting together a band with friends, but with the added benefit of professionals sharing their experience and guiding them through the process, from rehearsals to the final performance in an outstanding venue.”
- Lyn, Virginia Beach, VA“My son recently began drum lessons and the Rock 101 program and he absolutely loves it. The staff is very energetic and welcoming to all students and parents. I have been recommending School of Rock Virginia Beach to all of my friends.”
- Wendy, Virginia Beach, VA