Last Sunday marked the semiannual concert for Mark Shelley’s Rock School program. The program, located in Fulkerson Studios, allows young musicians the chance to perform in a band and further develop their musical skills. Guitarists, bassists, drummers, and vocalists ranging from 6th grade through high school seniors came together to showcase their talents at a performance at Big D’s Bar and Grill.

“It’s really run to be able to play songs that you hear on the radio with a full band,” MHS sophomore Mitch Kent said. “You don’t get that experience just sitting down by yourself with a guitar, bass or drums, and it definitely helps me develop as a musician.”

Kent plays guitar in the band M4, a band which performs songs ranging from Iron Maiden’s heavy rock classic “The Trooper” to alt-rock favorites such as “Scar Tissue” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, as well as System of a Down’s “Hypnotize” complete with all of its intricate harmonies and countering melodies.

“People come because it’s a great way to hear good, live music,” Kent said.

Other bands that performed include Greyhound 6, Citation Needed, and Calm Before the Storm, and also featured a set of original songs singer/songwriter Maddy Day. For more information, visit the Rock School’s Facebook page here.

By Jasmine Purtell