If you love to sing or play an instrument or dream of being a star, then this could be for you! Rock School UK provide a fantastic opportunity for 28 young people living within our communities in Leeds to get involved in a week - long programme, developing their music skills and finishing off with a live gig in a top music venue in town!
Rock School UK is a music-oriented week commencing in the Summer holidays, aimed at young people who want to develop their music and artistic skills. The process engaging the young people in workshops, which are designed to generate positive thinking and team building.
Ethan Turnor, from Aire Valley Homes Leeds, who has been giving a helping hand at Rock School UK, says “Rock School UK is a fantastic opportunity for young people within the local area. As well as writing, recording and playing songs, the young people gain bags of confidence through the mentoring and support given by the tutors. There are many brilliant young musicians around which may, for a number of different reasons, have gone unnoticed if they hadn’t been given the chance by Rock School UK.”
One mum said “Just wanted to say a huge thank you for helping and supporting my son last week at Rock School UK, he thoroughly enjoyed himself, he told us the sessions you ran where 'awesome' and he was 'living the dream'! Praise indeed from a 14 year old!
Another parent commented, “I don't know if you noticed that my son has mild Aspergers syndrome. The Rock School UK experience has been a tremendous success for him - at last he can contribute to a non-sport team effort with like minded peers, doing something he loves - a double bonus for his Mum and Dad.
Some of the young people, and Aire Valley tenants, who were part of Rock School UK had this to say;
Divine – “At the beginning of Rock School UK I was really nervous but everyone made me feel welcome and I’ve now made new friends. I’m progressing on my instrument with the help of all the tutors. I’m getting a feel for what it is like in a real band and I’m really excited about the final gig at the weekend."
Jonny – “From Rock School UK, I would like to grow as a musician and most importantly have fun playing music. The main instrument that I play is the drums but at Rock School UK this week I’m playing guitar which I’m really enjoying learning more. Everyday, as I speak to more different people, my confidence is growing. I’m looking forward to the song writing as this is an aspect of music I’ve never tried.“
Check out Aire Valley Homes’ Rock School UK photo gallery at www.flickr.com/photos/avhl/sets.
For more information about the Rock School UK programme, including dates of programmes which are not already fully booked, see their website www.rockschool.uk.com/