School of Rock & Pop (HS)
About School of Rock and Pop
The School of Rock and Pop is designed for students in grades 9-12, The program offers a unique opportunity to explore and perform popular music in an enjoyable and informal setting. From classics by The Beatles and Queen to iconic pop hits by artists like Michael Jackson and Taylor Swift, students will have the chance to engage with diverse music genres that resonate with them.
The curriculum will focus on building a repertoire that allows students to develop their skills on electric guitar, bass, keyboards, brass, strings, and vocals, while collaborating as part of a larger ensemble. Weekly rehearsals will emphasize the importance of teamwork, musicality, and individual growth.
To support learning, students should have their own instruments at home for practice, and they are encouraged to bring their instruments for rehearsals as well. Limited guitars (both acoustic and electric) and basses may be available to borrow during rehearsals. Drummers and keyboardists will have access to shared instruments, and vocalists are welcome without needing to play an instrument. To participate, all students are required to audition on December 17. Candidates should prepare a one-minute solo performance. Cuts are possible.
Click on image above to watch a short video promo.
2025 Spring Semester School of Rock & Pop Overview
- Weekly 75-minute practices
- Three performances: Spring Pep Rally (closed to spectators), Arts & Science Showcase, and the Spring Concert
- Participants:
- 9th-12th grade students
- Minimum participants = 13 students
- Minimum Qualifications:
- Own your own instrument (except for vocalists)
- Able to read music at a basic level
- Auditions Required: Tuesday, December 17 from 4:15 - 5:30 p.m. in the Music Room. Students should prepare a one-minute solo to showcase their musical abilities on their instrument (or vocals). Students must be registered for School of Rock and Pop to be eligible to audition.
- Students will need to provide their own instrument and concert apparel.
Rehearsal Schedule
Tuesdays - 4:15 - 5:30 p.m.
First rehearsal = Tuesday, January 14
Last rehearsal = Tuesday, May 13
Rehearsal Location
Music Room, Mays Building
School of Rock & Pop Director: Carlos Cita
Fees
Fees: $52.30 Registration Fee + $185 Participation Fee ($193.51 if paying through MySchoolBucks).
- All fees are non-refundable and non-transferrable and are due in full even if the student withdraws from the program or the school.
- A $25 late fee will be added once a payment is more than 3 days late. The student will then lose financial eligibility until the late payment and the late fee are paid.
A payment plan for the participation fee is available. Please select “Payment Plan” on the registration form when registering. The payment plan is as follows:
50% due January 5 - ($92.50 by check or $96.75 by MySchoolBucks)
50% due March 3 - ($92.50 by check or $96.75 by MySchoolBucks)
Financial assistance is available to those who need it. See Financial Assistance. To inquire, please email [email protected].
Eligibility
Please see Eligibility for Extracurricular Clubs and Activities.
- Students must be academically eligible to perform in concerts, showcases, and pep rallies.
- Students must be financially eligible to participate in rehearsals and performances.
- Students must maintain their Character in Good Standing eligibility, which requires that students adhere to the Meridian Student & Parent Handbook and the After School Music Terms for Participation.
Important Dates
Wednesday, December 4 - Registration opens.
Thursday, December 12- Registration closes at 9:00 p.m. No late registrations accepted.
Tuesday, December 17 - Auditions (required)
Wednesday, December 18 - Audition results posted outside the music room after school. Students learn if they made the group. Students who audition but are cut will be refunded their registration fee.
Thursday, December 19 - Participation fees invoiced via MySchoolBucks.
Sunday, January 5 - Participation fees due via MySchoolBucks invoice. (Or the first payment plan payment is due.)
Tuesday, January 7 - Students return from winter break. Practices start. Students must be financially eligible to begin rehearsing with the group.
Monday, March 3 - 2nd and final payment due for those on a payment plan.
Friday, April 4 - Pep rally performance (closed to spectators)
Saturday, April 5 - Performance at the Arts & Science Showcase
Tuesday, May 13 - Last practice
Tuesday, May 13 - 5:30 - 6:00 p.m. Spring Concert in the Music Room. (Families invited)
Registration
Registration opens Wednesday, December 4 and ends at 9 p.m. on Thursday, December 12. No late registrations will be accepted.
Lettering Requirements
Lettering could be possible for high school students who participate in School of Rock and Pop during its first full academic year (2025-2026).
Questions
- About School of Rock and Pop: Please email the Carlos Cita
- About School of Rock and Pop registration, Invoices or lettering: Please email [email protected].