City of Derry and Strabane – City of Derry and Strabane District Council

Young people immersed in music at the “Summer School of Rock”

July 22, 2024

Iconic anthems and catchy tunes resonated through the Alley Theatre recently as the popular ‘Summer School of Rock’ returned to the Strabane stage.

Taking place over four days, the Summer School of Rock gives children aged seven and over the chance to unleash their inner rock star with an introduction to drums, guitar, ukulele, keyboard and vocals.

Under the guidance of Gerry Strawbridge from the Academy of Arts, young people had the chance to try out a new instrument or learn additional skills and techniques to play an instrument they already know.

Over the course of the four days, the young people learned by rehearsing and playing together. Throughout the Summer School of Rock, participants were exposed to a wide range of musical styles, from energetic samba drums to iconic guitar riffs, from dynamic keyboard disco to the haunting sounds of the ukulele, providing them with an incredible and immersive musical experience.

Louise Boyce, Director of the Alley Theatre, said of the success of the summer school: “The Rock Summer School is one of the most popular workshops we run at the Alley. It’s incredible to see the transformation of the young people who take part in it in just four days. Some of them come through our doors as shy kids but leave with the confidence and talent to get on stage and perform in front of an audience. They’ve also learned a lot about different instruments and how to play them, as well as different genres and types of music – skills they can use in their adult lives.”

“Thank you to Gerry Strawbridge for making these sessions so rewarding for everyone who attended. Your energy and enthusiasm is infectious and the impact you have on these young people is incredible, we are already looking forward to next year!”

To find out about upcoming concerts and workshops at the Alley Theatre, visit www.alley-theatre.com.