Happy back to school, Portland! We know back to school can be stressful for both students and parents. After all, there are a million things to consider at this time, schedules to sort out, and activities to juggle.
That’s why we put together this handy-dandy FAQ to make your after-school experience as seamless as possible.
Sophie and I will be bringing the positive power of rock guitar and our irresistibly positive attitudes to the following schools this year:
- Abernethy Elementary
- Alameda Elementary
- Beverly Cleary K-8
- Laurelhurst K-8
- Irvington Elementary
All after-school programs launch the week of September 26, 2022.
Sign up for Rock Dojo after-school guitar in Portland, OR, today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Rock Dojo After-School
Can I rent a guitar?
Yes, Rock Dojo offers a limited number of guitar rentals. The price is $40 with a $50 deposit, which we will return when you return the guitar. However, kids-sized guitars are affordable, especially compared to other instruments. We recommend contacting local music stores like Trade Up Music or Portland Music Company.
Should I bring an acoustic or electric guitar to this class?
Sophie and I will be teaching electric guitars with amplifiers. However, both acoustic and electric guitars will work great for this class. Typically, we see about 75% of students playing an acoustic guitar. After a few terms of Rock Dojo after-school, the most motivated students usually upgrade to an electric guitar.
Can my seventh grader enroll in Rock Dojo after-school?
Although we advertise the class for grades one through sixth, seventh graders are welcome to register as long as they are willing to engage in a class with younger students.
My child has been taking lessons for a year or two. Will the Rock Dojo still work for them?
Yes, the Rock Dojo offers a flexible curriculum for students of all levels, from absolute beginners to advanced guitar players. The online courses, student handouts, supplemental resources, and in-person instruction cover the first five years of serious guitar study.
My child is an absolute beginner. Will the Rock Dojo work for them?
Rock Dojo makes learning to play the guitar fun and easy for kids of any experience level. While the after-school classes quickly cover a lot of material, the online courses, student handbooks, and supplemental resources walk students through the guitar learning process.
Which specific guitars and amps do you recommend?
It depends on your budget and musical goals. If you’re just getting started and unsure whether or not your child will stick with the guitar, I recommend a nylon string acoustic guitar because it’s the most affordable. If you know your child will stick with it, I recommend an electric guitar with an amplifier. My favorite model is the Squire Stratocaster Mini. My favorite kid’s guitar amplifier is the Boss Katana Mini. Together, they represent an investment of about $300.
Do you teach “classical-style” guitar?
Although many students play nylon string guitars—which some people call ‘classical guitars’—for the Rock Dojo after-school, Sophie and I are rock guitar instructors in the style of AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, and Iron Maiden. On the other hand, “classical-style” music is Bach, Beethoven, and Paganini, which we do not teach. While some skills transfer from one style to the next, classical music is a different art form altogether.
Who would you recommend NOT signing up for the Rock Dojo?
There are only two requirements to study guitar with Rock Dojo: a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. Therefore, the only type of student I would recommend avoiding Rock Dojo after-school is those who are unwilling to learn to play the guitar. For everyone else, after-school guitar rocks!
Get Your FREE Introductory Guitar Course for Kids
Not ready to register for the Rock Dojo after-school program. No problem. You can still get Rock Dojo’s FREE introductory guitar course for kids. When you sign up for our bi-weekly email, you will receive your free guitar course for kids delivered straight to your inbox. When your child finishes the introductory guitar course, they’ll know how to read the guitar tab, three simple riffs on the low E-String, and so much more! Sign up now, and you cancel at anytime!
