Music is an integral part of the OPRF community. OPRF has many musicians and bands led primarily by students, as well as classes dedicated to music spanning all genres. School of Rock Oak Park, located just a few blocks from OPRF at 219 Lake St., works to unite and empower musicians in the OPRF community.

School of Rock teaches musicians of all ages and skill levels, bringing musicians together in performances of all types. Classes are offered in guitar, keyboard, drums, and vocals.

The school has various groups students can join, some of which require an audition. These groups specialize in specific genres of music, such as European Metal.

Lola Reech, an OPRF senior who plays bass guitar at the school, enjoys opportunities to make music and work with others there. “My favorite thing is being able to do what I love, which is playing music,” said Reech. She also appreciates the perspective and collaboration the school grants musicians of all ages and skill levels. “It gives me a perspective of kids of all ages, it’s a really unique experience,” said Reech.
Showteam members like Reech are seen as top musicians in the school and get their positions by auditioning.

OPRF senior Todd Kiefer is part of the performance program, which performs a set of songs on a three-month basis. This team is separate from the show team, and is less competitive. Performers cover famous songs spanning various genres and artists. Students can sign up for multiple shows focusing on different genres.

Kiefer’s favorite part about the school is its collaborative nature. “I am always playing with people or talking with people,” he said. School of Rock benefits the OPRF community by connecting students interested in music, Kiefer says.

OPRF Senior Sofia Wardzala also takes classes at School of Rock as a drummer and bass player. She is expecting to perform some time in December. Her favorite part of School of Rock is “Definitely the people I have met,” she said.

Wardzala also appreciates how School of Rock brings OPRF students together. “Lots of bands form from School of Rock … I have met a ton of students that go to School of Rock at OPRF,” said Wardzala.

All three students recommend anyone with musical interest join School of Rock. No musical experience is required; beginner level programs include Rock 101, a course designed to teach students from the ground up.