By Aubrey Hardesty, BEAT reporter
BRUNSWICK, OH- Located in Strongsville, Ohio, there’s a place they call School of Rock where they teach kids how to perform, sing, and so much more. School of Rock is an environment that promotes teamwork, connection, and acceptance for everyone who walks through their doors. The staff is welcoming to those they meet, creating a community that fosters personal growth for their students.
One of their many vocal teachers, Lacey Farina, has been working at School of Rock for a little over two years and is loved by the staff and students. From the age of nine, Farina had been dreaming of performing on stage, and she knew the road to getting there wouldn’t be easy. Upon graduating, she knew she had to find a source of steady income to pursue that dream of hers.
Luckily, Farina got the chance to become a teacher after being scouted at an open mic. She has gone on to not only teach at School of Rock but also form her own band. She truly cares for her students and those around her. Her love for the performing arts and empathy go hand in hand, making her a huge asset to School of Rock’s efforts in providing comfort for their students.
“There are many reasons why I feel it is important to be part of a child’s life,” explained Farina. “I think it’s important to help guide and teach them any knowledge and wisdom that I can provide, whether that be regarding music or, at times, life. I think it is important to show them that they are accepted for who they are, that they matter, to offer them a safe space, and to be a good adult figure in their lives.”
Farina shared that some of her most rewarding experiences as a teacher come from seeing students break through barriers, watching them apply what they have learned during lessons directly to their music and seeing their growth and excitement. She added that it’s equally meaningful when a student feels comfortable enough to open up and confide in her, particularly during difficult times.
From classroom lessons to live ensemble work, School of Rock offers young musicians a platform to learn their craft and perform together. Farina stated, “Moments when a child has felt comfortable enough to feel their feelings in front of me or felt comfortable enough to just show up as themselves. It is a true honor.”
School of Rock is located at 16888 Pearl Road in Strongsville. Visit their website at https://www.schoolofrock.com/locations/strongsville for more information.
Aubrey Hardesty, Brunswick Middle School, is one of over fifty student “backpack journalists” (grades 6-12) in the award-winning BEAT Video Program. The program, celebrating its 25th year, is sponsored by Donut Land, Plum Creek Assisted Living Community, MODA Gifts, Scripps Howard Foundation and the Brunswick Rotary Club. Go to https://www.bcsoh.org/community/new-beat-site to learn more about the Program, or visit https://thebeat.viebit.com/?folder=ALL to view videos produced by the students.
PHOTOS: Lacey with students, and in performance.