Rockstar experience is exactly that. A rockstar experience. Paul and Leah know their stuff and are always helpfull with the tips. I have done it twice now and would gladly do it again. Well worth it!
Rob Van Stokrom – Guitarist for ‘Zero 2 Hero'
"I thoroughly enjoyed my Rockstar Experience - thanks for one of the best experiences I have had. Your knowledge of music and band dynamics resulted in an unforgettable experience that was not only personally rewarding but a credible effort when our band, 'Zero 2 Hero' did our gig in front of such a great crowd - it was awesome. Thanks for the coaching, lessons and knowledge you have given me. I was a muck around acoustic guitar strummer for years, now I am a guitarist able to play some of my favourite listening music with others in a band! Can't wait for Term 4!"
Jasmine Funda - Vocalist for 'Zero 2 Hero'
"Remembering the "fire in the belly" I got from music when I was younger, I was determined to have that re-ignited, and re-ignite it they did. Thanks Leah and Paul, you started me on the road to better confidence with my voice!"
Rob, Jasmine and their band 'Zero 2 Hero' perform "Get It On" by T-Rex
Cameron McPherson – Lead Guitarist for ‘Payload’
“To me, Rockstar Experience was the kickstart I needed to rekindle my enthusiasm for music, particularly guitar. It was an amazing opportunity to play in a band with a great group of guys. We shared an experience that I don't think any of us will ever forget, or regret. The passion's back, I'm playing every night again - and although I might never land another gig in the city - I can now safely say I've been a Rockstar, if only for one night.”
*Latest Update* Well, Cam thought he may never land another gig, but his band 'Stimulus Package' (also featuring drummer Luke Cincotta - another Rockstar participant) have been performing regularly in Melbourne venues and at parties around town. They also recently performed at the Rockstar Experience final show as our special guests. Here's an update from Cam:
"I owe you guys a lot because I hadn't picked up my guitar for a little while before Rockstar and was looking like just letting it get dusty in the corner, but that whole Experience made me realise that good fun gigs are really quite achievable and that's what really got me and Luke going :) so kudos to you guys and everyone involved in Rockstar and I hope to see you soon xoxo"
Cameron and Payload perform "Gel" by Collective Soul
Catherine Schrank – Co-Lead Vocalist for ‘Pet Food Only’
"I used to sing a lot with my sisters when I was growing up, but I never had the guts to actually sing in front of other people. When I was given Rockstar Experience as a birthday gift, I had no idea how I was going to do it - I was terrified. But after only a couple of rehearsals I started to loosen up and find my inner performer again. The final show was incredible - a life changing experience. In all honesty it was a real turning point for me in terms of gaining back self confidence, and I would recommend anyone in the same situation to just take a leap of faith and do it. I know how scared I was, but I would do it again in a heartbeat."
Catherine and Pet Food Only perform "Roadhouse Blues" by The Doors
“I'd always fancied myself as a bit of a drummer having been in a few bands with mates thrashing about on a Saturday afternoon, annoying the wife, kids and neighbours playing along with my favourite cd's, as between work and family life I’m pretty busy. So when I heard about the Rockstar program and especially the coaching available, I thought I owe it to myself to have a go. As always I was a bit nervous about my ability compared to the other guys/girls, but we all got matched up into our bands and within the first few hours friendships were made and I was actually doing it for real. With a coach for every instrument (including a drummers dream in Mr Elyan Fernova ) no one was ever stuck, or out of their depth. I have learnt technique, how to work with other musicians, and adjust my sound for all types of music - and have a whole new network of mates. I got to rock a room of around 250 people with real lights, big sound - with friends - and I’m still grinning :-) With today’s technology I can watch it any time, and the memories will always be there. Thanks to Leah, Paul and the whole Rockstar team.”
Mark and The Rockstar Experience Superband* perform "You Really Got Me" by The Kinks
The Rockstar Experience Superband was made up of selected members of both bands and they played this song together for the first time, live on stage, with no prior rehearsal as a total group - great stuff!
“Rockstar Experience was fantastic. The coaches were really helpful and supportive without being pushy. This allowed participants to develop their performance in an enjoyable environment without unnecessary pressure. The people who I met and played with were not only a great group of musicians but a really good bunch of fun people. I had an absolute ball. If you’re considering Rockstar Experience but have some doubts I say, do it…sign up…you won’t regret it!!”
Pete and Payload perform "Better" by The Screaming Jets
"Although I'm a pro keyboardist, I've wanted to play bass for a long time. Rockstar gave me the opportunity to pick up a bass guitar and 'rock out' to hard rock tunes that have no place for a keyboard player. The learning curve was steep, but definitely worthwhile. Coaching was top-notch and all rehearsal equipment was provided. The exhilaration leading up to the showcase performance - plus the unique friendships I developed with bandmates along the way - was awesome!"
Shaun and Payload perform "Highway To Hell" by AC/DC
