All About Let There Be Rock Pottsville
Imagine a place where "practicing your scales" actually means rehearsing with your bandmates for a gig at a real venue. That is the exact vision behind Let There Be Rock, the innovative new business that recently took home the prize in the Launch Pottsville contest. By focusing on a performance-first model, this school offers a refreshing alternative to traditional music lessons and gives students a safe and welcoming space to grow their talents while staying connected to their local roots.
The information in this article is a combination of my experience and opinions from an Open House visit where I had the opportunity to sit down with co-owner Dave Cantwell and facts sourced from Let There Be Rock's official site.
The Vision
Let There Be Rock in Pottsville offers so much more than the average music lesson. The Pottsville location is co-owned by "Cousin Dave" Cantwell and Crobot frontman Brandon Yeagley, two Schuylkill County natives with professional expertise in the entertainment industry. Their life experiences, both the good and the bad, led to a desire to mentor young artists who want to get started and avoid the pitfalls of the industry. The music school offers not just lessons on how to play instruments, but also lessons in confidence, performance, and support. It acts as a safe place for the creatives who join the program and creates a music-focused community where its students can socialize and make connections.
Let There Be Rock is a performance-based school, leading to next-level learning for its students. Participants not only learn to play their instrument of choice, but also about repairs, setting up and break down for a show, creativity through music, stellar stage presence, and true passion in performance. And the coolest part? Students have the opportunity to join a REAL band with other students under the care of a band manager- have weekly rehearsals, build a set list, and actually perform for a live audience at a venue.
Bonus points - The staff make it EASY for parents and SAFE for kids. Students can be dropped off for sessions while you run errands or take a break in the lobby area. Scheduling, payments, and communication can be done through their simple to use app. This is an extracurricular you can sign up for knowing you're not adding even more to your plate.
What classes are offered at Let There Be Rock Pottsville?
Students can take lessons in a range of instruments including guitar, piano, keyboard, drums, bass, ukulele, violin, saxophone, harmonica, and voice as well as lessons in music-related industries such as song writing, audio, recording/production, and special EFX.
But remember- these lessons aren't your traditional music class. Students will enroll in one of the unique programs offered that include a combination of private lessons, band rehearsals, facility access, and specialty sessions. Prices range from $150 to $285/month.
Who can take lessons?
Every Let There Be Rock location stands by the belief that everyone has an inner rock star and you're welcome to join the band whether you're 5 or 95!
While chatting with "Cousin" Dave at the open house, I specifically asked what lessons look like for the younger crew. (I was thinking loud and chaotic, based on my own 6 year old son.) The answer involved mentions of a lot of patience, taking breaks, and flexibility. Sounds like someone prepared to handle the energy of little rock stars to me.
And as for pairing bandmates? While it can vary due to student enrollment, they do try to keep similar ages together. And when there's a gap that needs to be filled? The teachers are always happy to step in and fill a spot in a band to make sure every student has the opportunity to participate fully in the program. No student is left out of the full experience.
When are classes available?
The music school is open Monday through Thursday 3:30-8:30 pm, which is perfect availability for after school and work!
There were mentions of other possible opportunities in the future (summer camp, perhaps?), but you'll have to keep an eye out for official news on that!
Who teaches the classes?
Let There Be Rock Pottsville employs a collection of teachers with a variety of experiences and expertise. The co-owners have an impressive portfolio of experience including time spent in jazz band, marching band, a nationally touring rock band, recording in a studio, working as tour manager, and more. The other teachers include professionals in the entertainment industry, school teachers, and music majors.
During my visit, every single member of the staff was kind, positive, and passionate. When other visitors entered the building, they were welcomed warmly and brought in for a jam session and hint of a lesson. From my quiet spot just outside the lesson space, I could hear excitement and words of encouragement being passed around.
Where is Let There Be Rock Pottsville located?
Let There Be Rock Pottsville is located at
2300 Mahantongo Street
Pottsville, PA 17901
The entrance is off of 23rd Street, at the back of the shared building on the ground level.
How do I get started?
If you'd like to enroll your child (or yourself) or learn more, reach out directly:
Website: Pottsville PA | Let There Be Rock
Facebook: Let There Be Rock Facebook
Instagram: Let There Be Rock Instagram
Call: (570) 682-7778
Email: ltbrspottsville@gmail.com
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