“I am probably not qualified to teach” is one of the first things that the colorful character Green states in Rock School.  His persona will undoubtedly raise some eyebrows, as he frequently swears in the presence of the students whose age ranges between nine and 17.  He even goes to the depth of openly discussing Satanism with the students, which will certainly create some heated debates.  There are also moments when he becomes very confrontational with the students where he screams and swears.  He is the opposite of Jack Black’s character that the audience can find in School of Rock (2003).  Despite these qualities of Green, the students return with a deep burning desire to the school to practice and hone their musical talents.

The school of rock has an internal hierarchy where the students climb, as their skills improve.  With the progress of the students skills Green intensifies his attention to those with exceptional talent while he nurtures those who are struggling.  There is not a single student who seems to disappear in the crowd of the 120 students who attend the music school, and he never turns his back on any student regardless of talent.  Green’s sense for perfection also seems to rub off onto the students, as he demands the students to play whatever piece they are practicing with precise skillfulness.  And if the student does not produce what is expected they quickly learn that a skipped practice is a missed opportunity.

The endless hours of practice lead up to the season when the students perform their acquired skills on stage.  Two of the recitals include an introductory Black Sabbath show and a performance to pay their respect to the Guitar Gods.  In addition, the best students are given the opportunity to travel to Germany and perform in the Zappanale festival for Frank Zappa fans from all over the world.  During these performances, the audience gets the opportunity to see the students shine, as their skills emerge and they recognize their own progress in an overwhelming flood of applause.

One of his students says, “He is different around parents”, about Green, which suggests that Green is aware of what is socially acceptable.  Yet, the audience will recognize a behavioral tendency that many would not appreciate from their children’s teachers.  It is obvious that he is not always a role model.  Many would consider Green dangerous and even damaging to the children.  Yet, the students both love and hate Green, as he pushes them to improve.  And it is not to the final test when the students truly discover the gift that Green has bestowed them.  Jimmy Carl Black, the drummer in Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention, recognizes Greens efforts to whom he pleads “I hope you continue this, man.”

It is with mixed feeling that the audience will see Green and his attempt to make musicians of the children.  There are moments where the audience will drop their jaw on the floor, but it is not always for the same reason.  At times the film induces laughter, and in others seriousness.  This is certainly an intriguing documentary, which will give many reasons to argue what is right, or wrong, in regards to education.  Regardless, it is obvious that Green succeeded with what he was sent out to accomplish with the highest mark.  So remember, “Long live rock!”

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COUNTRY

USA

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