At Urban Academy, we believe in nurturing students’ passions and talents beyond the classroom. This year, we introduced an electrifying addition to our extracurricular lineup: the UA Rock Band! Designed to ignite musical enthusiasm and foster group dynamics, the Rock Band experience was nothing short of sensational.
Unleashing Musical Talent
The goal was to give a different perspective on what it means to perform musically. The focus is on passion, group cohesion, and FUN! The sheer amount of energy, talent and rock shouting was palpable. It all culminated in a (somewhat) impromptu showcase at the end of the year.
It all started in January 2024 with tryouts that were open to Grades 4-6. The theatre was a bundle of nerves as students demonstrated their musical talents in front of their peers and teachers. There were drum solos, duets, rapping, and some brass instruments. Unfortunately, with the sheer number of students, we couldn’t take everyone and ultimately 12 were selected to form the band.
Those 12 students met on Fridays after school with unfettered excitement. They learned how to set up amps, plug in patch cords, and check the mics. Once set, the group would try to channel their energy through focus games. Then it was time to practice. It was a quick lesson in just how loud these instruments could get and the importance of playing only at the right times.
The songs chosen were ‘Stompa’, an upbeat Canadian rhythm-rock song by Serena Ryder and the classic punk staple ‘Blitzkrieg Bop’ by The Ramones. Both songs are ideal for first learning an instrument and represent important skills when becoming a rock band. Stompa teaches band cohesion through well-timed band-stops and drops before the chorus, whereas Blitzkrieg Bop gives students an opportunity to let loose and harness some raw rock energy.
Week after week the students improved in learning their parts and coming together as a band, but it was looking like the songs were just not quite there yet to put on a show. However, by the second last week, something clicked. The bandmates were nailing their parts and listening to others, and the songs came together. So much so that for fun we added a third song, ‘Shake It Off’ by Taylor Swift. This was mainly because it is simple and everyone knows it.
The showcase was on! The last week of Rock Band the parents and siblings of the rockers were invited to see what they could do! They successfully performed all three songs to a raucous theatre of cheers and applause.
Celebrating Passion and Performance
The UA Rock Band exemplifies Urban Academy’s commitment to providing enriching experiences that go beyond academics. Through music, our students not only honed their musical talents but also learned valuable lessons in teamwork, perseverance, and the thrill of live performance.
