Rock 'n' Roll

Read the text and answer the questions that follow.

Rock ’n’ Roll

So you want to be a rock ’n’ roll star? Until recently, there was not much studying you could do to fulfill this ambition. Rock stars of the past relied on raw talent, hard work and a lot of luck; even the members of the Beatles had no formal education in music.

But now, throughout the United States, the United Kingdom and elsewhere, aspiring young musicians can attend rock ’n’ roll schools. Most are designed for the 8 to 18 age group, and offer lessons on playing guitar, drums and keyboard instruments, as well as singing. Classes are sometimes also given on rock history, musical composition and song-writing.

Some programmes train students in performance-related skills such as sound and lighting and stage presence: how to develop self-confidence and deal with stage fright. Students may also find out about group dynamics and what to do with group members whose egos get too big. Sometimes students also learn about logo and brand names, and may pass out autographed photos of themselves to “fans” after a performance.

For those who cannot find a local programme, summer camps devoted to rock music are also available. Here, counsellors accompany students to lessons, rehearsals and jam sessions, as well as to music shops and recording studios. Participants may also attend performances in local bars, and meetings are arranged with famous local musicians. From them, campers find out not only about technique, but also about the realities of life in the music business, and how to make it a career.

However, not everyone wants hands-on instruction. People who prefer a more academic approach can choose from classes available in various locales on rock ’n’ roll related subjects. Even people with no musical talent may enjoy learning about the evolution of the genre, girl groups or the rise of Motown, for example.

So whether your interest in music is theoretical or practical, there is now somewhere for you to study. Who knows where the next rock and roll sensation may be learning right now?

1.    What did rock stars of the past need in order to succeed?

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2.    On which instruments do rock ’n’ roll schools offer lessons?

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3.    Write T (true) or F (false), according to paragraphs 2 and 3

1.  ……  A few rock ’n’ roll programmes admit children who are under eight.

2.  ……  Some rock and roll schools teach students how to write songs.

3.  ……  Students must develop self-confidence before they are allowed to perform.

4.  ……  Logos and brand names may be discussed in the programme.

5.  ……  Students may learn how to photograph each other after a performance.

4.    Choose the correct answers.

1.  Campers … .

     a.  are qualified to become counsellors after attending camp

     b.  sometimes have the chance to perform at local music shops

     c.  may get advice on how to become professional musicians

     d.  often rehearse in real recording studios

2.  Classes on related subjects are available for … .

     a.  those people who have no musical talent

     b.  people who don’t have local rock ’n’ roll schools

     c.  those who prefer a hands-on approach

     d.  people who are interested in the academic aspects of music

5.    Answer the question.

...... “… girl groups or the rise of Motown, …” (paragraph 5) are given as examples of ............................

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Webquest

1.    Go to the School of Rock ’n’ Roll website at: http://schoolofrocknroll.durhamcollege.ca and answer
the following questions. The FAQ’s will help you.

       1.  What are the ages of the kids at the summer school?

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       2.  Which four instruments do beginners learn to play?

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       3.  List three other classes the students can participate in.

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       4.  Where is the camp located?

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       5.  What hours are the kids at rock ’n’ roll school?

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       6.  When are family and friends invited to watch the future stars perform?

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       7.  During ‘a day in the life of a rock star’ what will the participants do?

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2.    Write a paragraph about the history of rock ’n’ roll. Include the following information in your paragraph:

·       where and when rock ’n’ roll music started

·       the music genres that influenced and formed rock ’n’ roll

·       the origin of the name “Rock ’n’ Roll”

·       examples of early rock ’n’ roll bands and singers

·       examples of modern rock ’n’ roll artists

These Internet sites are a good place to begin your search:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/rock_and_roll

http://www.shmoop.com/history-of-rock/