Most people have fantasized about performing in a rock group. It’s part of the American Dream. Let’s say your daughter is taking guitar lessons, and has progressed from painful noisemaking to signs of real talent. How do you help her move from an ordinary student slogging the guitar case to weekly lessons to actually performing in a band? There’s gotta be a better way to the stage than the stereotypical garage band practicing one (perhaps cacophonous) song over and over, with no real hope of ever landing a gig. Actually, there is, and it’s right here in Asheville, NC.
It’s Rock Academy, one of the most unique services available at Music Academy – Asheville.
How it works. Rock Academy is a very special class where students who’ shown aptitude are invited to attend a very special class where they learn how to be part of a band. They are taught how to perform as a unit, from choosing and mastering songs, to the dynamics of setting up a stage, and the art of performance. It’s taking the dream of performing in a band and turning it into a class that has deadlines for gigs in the Asheville, NC area throughout the year.
Who can participate? Rock Academy isn’t just for currently enrolled students at the Music Academy – Asheville, but includes children and adults from all over the greater Asheville, NC area. These are audition-based classes, set up in groups of similar ages. For example, there’s a class called Opening Act, for younger students up to age 13, two middle and older teen groups and an adult group. There are openings available now, plus a new class beginning soon, which is a great way for a child who might be a little intimidated by the concept of joining a band learn the ropes in a friendly atmosphere.
Do they really perform? Absolutely! In fact, Rock Academy has performed at the Biltmore Park concert series, the Outlet Mall, Folkmoot, The Orange Peel in Asheville, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, just to name a few. It’s an opportunity for students of all ages to be able to fit in with their own rock group and learn how to present themselves a great show on stage. After all, the art of performing is something that begins with talent and is nurtured through instruction and experience.
How do I get more information? Easy-peasy. Simply check out Rock Academy’s website or give the office a call at 828-252-1888.