JD Students Loving the Power of Rock

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:32:53 GMT

By MacKenzie Nickles

Sean Landis
JD freshman Chris Shemwell performs with School of Rock

Almost every person has tried to sing or play a musical instrument at some point in their lives. Only some take it to the next level of accomplishment. But several JD students have chosen to do just that. The School of Rock has been helping young people further their musical abilities through instruction since their doors first opened in 1998. The various franchises located throughout all of America teach guitar, keyboards, vocals, bass guitar, and drums through lessons that are performance-based. Instructors help teach the students the fundamental skills of playing instruments and singing. Three freshmen at JD -- Gabe Lewis, Christi Landis, and Chris Shemwell -- are members of the School of Rock franchise in Sandy. These young musicians keeps their spare time focused not on sports or cheerleading but on the art of rock music and performance. The students are separated into different groups to perform weekly for rehearsals and shows. The foundation of the School of Rock is to teach the fundamental lessons of music, but also confidence in performing. The School of Rock website even says under their Benefits Beyond Music section, “By taking the focus off the individual and creating a team dynamic, students enjoy a more supportive and motivating environment in which to learn.” Students who have taken School of Rock music lessons also think this is true. “I have been with Sandy School of Rock for almost five years,” says Shemwell. “There, I have learned not only how to play the drums, but also how to have confidence and perform in public.” Landis also has another reason why she loves going to School of Rock. “I love School of Rock because of the people there,” Landis says. “Everyone is so welcoming and are so fun to be around.” Shemwell, Lewis, and Landis perform with fellow musicians at schools and church events around Utah. They also get together for “gigs” at local fundraisers and events, sometimes earning payment for their performances. “I really noticed how much I loved music at my first show,” says Lewis. “Very few of us will go on to become professional performers, or maybe even rock stars, but for now we are in it for the music.”