School of Rock is not your average music institute.

In fact, it has its own unique teaching philosophy that has taken Evanston by storm.

“School of Rock is a performance-based music school,” says general manager Samantha Montanaro. “We take a different approach to teaching music.”

Located at 1311 Sherman Pl., students are divided into different bands based on both their age and skill level. These students play shows from every genre, so that they are familiar with a wider range of music.

After these students are divided, either a genre is selected or a group of bands is offered for students to choose from.

Once students advance higher up in the ranks, they achieve more opportunities for bigger shows at larger venues, with larger crowds.

“The highest tier at School of Rock is the All-Stars, which are an elite group of students who actually get to play at Lollapalooza,” says Montanaro.

This provides students with what will most likely be one of their most nerve-racking performing opportunities.

“We actually had a group of students who opened up for Weezer at the Aragon Ballroom, which gave them a truly spectacular experience,” says Montanaro.

Montanaro feels very strongly about School of Rock and its overall message.

“This experience can be something for everybody. You don’t have to know how to play guitar, drums, or bass to rock.”