Schools
Former Matawan School Keeps Rocking at New Marlboro Location
School of Rock, which used to be in Matawan, will soon open its doors in Marlboro
School of Rock may have closed their doors on Ravine Drive in Matawan, but the music program has not fallen silent.
Young rock and rollers - singing and playing guitar, bass guitar, drums and keyboards - will soon be heard mastering their musical talents from the school's new Marlboro location at 256 Rt. 79 North.
School of Rock is a performance-based approach to a child's musical talents, and aims to teach kids ages 7 to 18 how to play their instruments while giving them the confidence to perform on stage.
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The organization focuses on teaching young performers to rock "on stage and in life," according to the national School of Rock website. They learn not only how to play their instruments, but also develop the confidence to perform on stage.
The school was recently bought by Antonina and Michael Basile, who saw their children flourish at School of Rock before it came under their ownership.
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"We had been in a traditional music program before that and our children really reached a plateau. When we introduced them to School of Rock, we were amazed at how quickly their skills ramped up," said Michael. "We thought so much of the program that through a life-changing circumstance we decided to reinvent ourselves and buy the school."
According to Ciano Cioffi, a School of Rock student, everyone develops a strong bond through their common interest.
"It moves everthing up a level from a normal lesson," said Cioffi. "Plus you're here with a lot of great friends. You make friends for life."
The Basile's believe the band formed at the school should learn to do good for the community. Recently, House Band performed at The Stone Pony for the Ronald McDonald House charity.
"We believe so much in the foundation of this program...and have seen such growth, both musical and personal in our own children that we decided to take the plunge and become owners,” said Antonina. "We are looking forward to bringing great music to Monmouth County and are hoping to partner with local charities to introduce the kids to the power of civic duty."
School of Rock's grand opening, from 1:30-3:30 p.m. on Sept. 24, will feature a ribbon cutting ceremony, House Band, hot dog cart, tour of the facility and a chance to see students rehearsing.
