By School of Rock Carlstadt Intern, Julia Bubendorf

Honing an environment built on respect, enjoyment and learning, Carlstadt School of Rock sets itself apart from its counterparts for the simple fact that they believe in a mission - enriching lives through performance-based music education. Through their staff members, they put making a difference in the lives of their students at the forefront. Co-Owner and Music Director Dominique Abita attests, “Our teachers are very passionate about our students and their developments.” Whether it’s accommodating lesson issues or keeping a student company while they complete homework, as Co-Owner and General Manager Dave Santamaria lists, each task is managed with such passion and care exclusive to Carlstadt School of Rock.

When a parent walks in, they can be sure that their child is in safe hands - within one tour of the school, there is clear devotion to their cause of enriching lives through performance-based music education. “We’ve created a home away from home culture,” Dave assuredly informs, “A lot of people just love to be here, even on days where they don’t have lessons.” He goes on to share that many students have used the words “safe place” when describing their experience within the environment.

“SOR Carlstadt is a very culture based school. We hope for our students and teachers to grow,” Studio Manager, Show Director, and Instructor Faith Anguita earnestly noted, “Compared to other schools, we don’t just sell programs or lessons; we are mentors and friends, and most of all, we are a family. Not a lot of people can say that for other schools.”

Alongside the aspect of personability rooted in this location, Dave and Dominique have made quite the effort to put their passion-project out into the world and accessible to all interested. They frequently attend local events and are always at the forefront with a kind smile and a high-five! Amicability and familiarity are core-values for the people of Carlstadt School of Rock. Being on a first-name basis is the bare minimum and the staff work hard to make it so that every student looks forward to walking into their building.

Faith states that she keeps a positive and patient outlook when she is teaching lessons, furthering, “I share that with my students as well.” Dave described the awareness of positive change for students’ well-being, “We don’t just teach music, we change lives.” Frequent training is conducted in an effort to improve staff behavior, as he elaborates, “When we do make changes, we try to do it for the better of the entire holistic system.”

Additionally, Carlstadt School of Rock emphasizes their selling of instruments and accessories. As soon as someone walks into the store, acoustic guitars, basses and electric guitars are placed on the front lines next to capos, straps, tuners and more! It is also possible for customers to order in instruments to that location for pickup - Dave describes the arrangement as a one-stop shop.

Carlstadt School of Rock, despite being less than two years in business, is making its name known and the culture surrounding it is everlasting for its students. Sign up today and experience their mission firsthand of enriching lives through performance-based music education.