History lessons enveloped in pop culture, one-of-a-kind performance opportunities and classical master classes await students in the city where the term “rock ‘n’ roll” was coined.
From exploration of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to concerts at venues of all kinds, students can immerse themselves in music’s rich history and make history of their own in Cleveland, Ohio.
Schools of Rock and Bach
Learning about the chronicles of rock music is hands-on at the world’s only Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Students can examine the world’s largest collection of rock ‘n’ roll artifacts, from artists ranging from the Beatles and Johnny Cash to Beyoncé and Lady Gaga. Groups can also participate in the “Rockin’ the Schools” K-12 program, which uses rock history to teach music, science and social studies.
A Cleveland Orchestra performance gives budding musicians a chance to listen to and learn from one of the best ensembles in the world. In addition to attending matinee concerts at the beautiful Severance Hall, students can enjoy behind-the-scenes tours of the historic concert hall to learn how its intricate design affects acoustics during concerts.
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Orchestra offer the ultimate musical adventure with the “Classical Music Rocks” package. As part of this experience, students can explore the Rock Hall’s exhibits, perform at the Rock Hall and enjoy a concert by the world-renowned Cleveland Orchestra at Severance Hall.
Students Steal the Spotlight
After learning about—and from—the best in rock and classical music, students can take center stage in Cleveland with more than 40 performance opportunities around town, from giving a concert at a music venue to entertaining crowds at various recreation locations.
At the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the same stages where Rock Hall Inductees belt out tunes from time to time are available for student shows. If the energy of the audience in an intimate concert setting is important, students can open for a headlining entertainer at Bop Stop and receive a copy of their performance, thanks to Bop Stop’s on-site recording studio.
Groups can also perform the National Anthem at Progressive Field before the Cleveland Indians take the field for home games or showcase their talents at Cedar Point, “The Roller Coaster Capital of the World.” Whether it’s marching down the Main Midway or singing on the Group Performance Stage, students can experience the thrill of being the center of attention before taking on the thrill rides at Cedar Point—just an hour’s drive west of Cleveland.
Fine Tuning Talents
To instill a greater appreciation and understanding of the performing arts with students, various organizations throughout Cleveland offer music clinics and master classes. Students can learn from top talent, including members of The Cleveland Orchestra or the Cleveland Pops Orchestra. Local universities like Baldwin Wallace University and Cleveland State University also offer learning opportunities for student groups.
Whether students are aspiring to be the next big rock star or musical maestro, Cleveland offers unique performance opportunities and music-themed itineraries sure to hit the right note with groups.
Written by Kristen Jantonio, Communications Specialist, Destination Cleveland. For more information, visit www.thisiscleveland.com.
Photo Courtesy of Cody York Photography.
