For most tots, the musical path is a viable one—who doesn’t want to be a rockstar? Jack Black to the rescue! (Okay, maybe not.) But School of Rock (SOR) does exist. And this musical mogul is taking over the world, with 70 schools throughout 26 states and 6 new locales in the pipeline. And their AllStar musicians are coming to you on Tuesday, July 19 at Webster Hall to raise money for an awesome cause, The Ronald McDonald House. —
THE 411
As their website slings, SOR prides itself in “inspiring kids to rock on stage and in life.” Going above and beyond the traditional private class (which they definitely offer), the school is unique in its performance-based approach. From the classroom to the real world, SOR takes the bedroom strumming to a live stage.
“It’s exactly what I would have wanted as a kid,” expresses Mark Biondi, Director of School of Rock AllStars and Product Development who’s been with the School for the past five and a half years. Biondi refers to the school’s charm as “positive peer pressure.” “
The mission of SOR focuses on adding value to a community and connecting with those of similar interest. It’s a confidence and team builder; they know the other kids are counting on them.” With artists like Mick Jagger, Perry Farrell and Adrian Greiner stopping in to listen and chat—obviously the SOR philosophy is working!
THE ALLSTARS
The most engaged members of SOR make up the AllStars program that Biondi directs. “They are amazing mentors and leaders,” he gushes. While school’s out for the summer, the learning continues (and not just around music). In an annual tradition, the gifted players follow the authentic rock and roll route and go on tour each summer. The talented youngsters also learn about taking an active role in the community and being charitable as each summer tour benefits a particular cause. This summer’s “Rock the House” tour raises money for the Ronald McDonald Charities.
Touring this summer in her first year as an AllStar is NY native Blaise Sandberg, 16. Refusing to go the traditional theater route but hesitant about the age limits that come with performing rock, Sandberg stumbled across SOR. “We’re a close knit family,” she explains. Sandberg can be seen wowing the crowd on Tuesday, July 19 at the Stone Pony (known as the musical haunt of Bruce Springsteen.) and at the popular Gathering of the Vibes on Friday, July 22. With a big heart for songwriting and of course rocking out, Sandberg is also an advocate against cyberbullying with MTV’S A Thin Line.
GET INVOLVED
Don’t be fooled by their baby faces—these kids totally know how to shred. And the best part is, they are playing hits from the past 50 years of rock and roll tradition. “It’s a complete bonding experience. My son is playing the Ramones, it’s incredible,” says Biondi. Sandberg agrees explaining how it’s united her family, “I write with my mom sometimes and my dad loves coming to the shows.”
- To get your child involved check out School of Rock online.
- %uFFFDStop by one of their locations for more information.
- Check out The AllStars at Webster Hall and raise money for the Ronald McDonald Charities on July 19, with surprise guests!%uFFFD
- To follow their summer tour, click here.
And remember: practice makes perfect! “It doesn’t matter how much talent you have; you’re not going to go %uFFFDanywhere without practice, so just push yourself to do it,” advises Sandberg to all the little ones who dream of a melodic future.
