Iowa School of Rock Call 515.232.6546

The house lights go down as the stage lights come up. The opening chords thunder from your guitar, and just then it hits you, the song was right - you do "got the music in you!" We're not talking air guitar here. And regardless of your current level of playing experience, you can experience playing in a band and in a real rock concert with people your age. You baby boomers can do this too, even if you've never taken your drums out of the basement or your guitar out of the living room. This is learning by doing. And when it comes to music, nothing can compare.

Program Info
Students are placed in bands and participate in a series of professionally-coached practices that prepare them to perform in a real rock concert.

Bands will also participate in a class that guides them through the process of establishing their band's identity, selecting suitable music for their band, naming their band, designing a band logo, and promoting their band and final concert. The final concert is a full-blown rock production.

FAQ

1. Who can participate?
Anyone 10 years old or older may participate.

2. How much experience do I need to have?
We will work you into a band whatever your level of experience, and we will create a roll for you within a band that is appropriate for your experience level.

3. What if I don’t play a “traditional” rock instrument?
No problem. If you look around our town or around the world, you will find cellists, saxophonists, trumpeters, violinists, etc. in combos of all sorts, including rock bands.

4. What equipment will I need?
In order to adequately practice on your own time you will need to have your basic instrument, guitar, bass, saxophone, cello, access to a piano or keyboard or drums if that is what you will be playing. Guitarists may need to use their own amplifier (check with us on that) We will provide a bass amp, pro keyboard rig, drums, microphones, monitors, etc.

5. How will we be divided up into bands?
Bands will be formed primarily by age and then by musical preferences and then experience. Less experienced players will get the benefit of working with more experienced, advanced players will get to experience playing a key out-front role and leadership within the group.

6. How will music be chosen?
Taking into account the musical tastes and abilities, the coaches will determine the final song list for each band.

7. What about original music? Can my band play the song I wrote?
We definitely encourage original material and will prioritize grouping people who express an interest in playing original music of their own or others within the group.

Testamonials on the Iowa School of Rock

I must write to congratulate and thank you for having the determination to do a very good thing. WOW! I was proud to have a son who was given an opportunity to work cooperatively in a group, to be inspired by adults and older yourth who are passionate, disciplined and commited to performing. I am still beaming!...You tune kids in and tune into their energy...Bravo! S. Norris, mom of a rocker

Thank you so much for providing such a special evening for all of us! We truly enjoyed the music and engaging atmosphere of the Iowa School of Rock concert. Colin had a grin from ear to ear! Not only was he able to play the drums with a group of great musicians, he also received the encouragement and support from all the other bands. What a fabulous example the older musicians provided for the yournger ones. Way to go Rockers!! Gratefully, M. Peterson, mom of a rocker

Just wanted to let you know that the concert on the 5th was fantastic...Maybe a bit biased on my part, but I thought Holly's band was the best, overall. Just wanted to let you know that I was impressed by Hollly's performace and the way she showed so much improvement form last summer. M. Barton, dad of a rocker

It was amazing to see the evolution these kids make from one session to the next. This group really seemed to gel. I though they sounded great and worked together so well. D. Rupp, mom of a rocker