Sutherland Shire could be the home of the next ACDC, Powderfinger or Jet to be unleashed on the music world with a school opening up last weekend – specifically for those who want to rock’n’roll all night.
School of Rock, Sutherland had its grand opening on February 4 and, like the 2003 film starring Jack Black that is its namesake, there were lots of kids at the studio on President Avenue making a racket.
The franchise is the second in NSW and third in Australia, having been opened by Engadine husband and wife team Kathleen and Hugh Taylor, who share a serious passion for rock music.
“School of Rock is the music school your mum and dad wished they had when they were kids. It’s a very clever concept that gets kids and people of all ages performing with their peers,” Mrs Taylor said.
“We were heavily inspired to open our own studio after realising what an amazing program the School of Rock offers. Our eldest son is talented on guitar and drums which we put down mainly to his supported learning at School of Rock, Campbelltown.
“All School of Rock programs are performance-based and emphasise the message that music is not just about playing an instrument. It’s about teamwork, building confidence and creating leaders.”
Australian rock royalty Lindsay ‘The Doctor’ McDougall, guitarist in Sydney punk rock band Frenzal Rhomb and known for his work on Triple J and Double J, returned to his old stomping ground to help launch the school.
The studio is down the road from where McDougall and Mrs Taylor finished school together at St Patrick’s College, Sutherland in 1995.
“I thought I’d head down and play some songs and just try not to embarrass myself in front of such musically talented kids,” McDougall said.
“It would have been great if me and my mates had had a studio as good as this to learn and practice in when we were younger… these kids are bloody lucky to be able to make a racket with their friends here.”
The school offers individual private music instruction on guitar, bass, vocals, keyboards and drums. Students also learn how to jam with their peers in a weekly practice session.
Details: schoolofrock.com/sutherland or 1800-ROCKON
