Peter Spaulding and his son Grady Spaulding-Andre are in different programs at the School of Rock West Des Moines but two things are evident about them: both are gifted musicians and very supportive of each other in everything they do.

The guitar player doesn't even remember when he started to play music. All he knows is he loves creating music and joining School of Rock was a way for him to explore that passion.

The self-taught musician became a teacher because other people noticed his skills were fluid and he was also personable working with others. Since starting his teaching career, Tanner says he has “enjoyed every minute of it”.

After months of hard work, the adult group put together a stellar six-song set list and rocked on to set the scene before the West Des Moines adult band continued the jams.

As a professional musician, Austin Corrick plays guitar, bass, and sings. At School of Rock, he hopes to share his love for music with other aspiring musicians.

"The heart beat of the band" is how Leo McKinney describes being a drummer. An interest that became a passion starting at a young age.

It was a season show to remember for West Des Moines' Rock 101 and Performance Program groups. The musicians took over the iconic Des Moines Water Works Park Amphitheater for the first time and welcomed around 600 people in the audience.

Our adult student bands come together again. Student Driver and After Hours rocked the stage at Torrent Brewing Company in September, the bands were part of the Maximum Ames Music Festival.

A childhood habit led Estella Bowman to start playing music. With help from School of Rock instructors, Estella is now able to play multiple instruments and has been rocking with us for about three years.

Ian Draves is the general manager of the Cedar Rapids/Marion school. Music was a great tool of healing for Ian for many years. Besides managing the school, he also shares his wisdom with kids through classes.