Pladd Dot's School of Rock students will take the stage in a concert at the Emma Kelly Theater inside the Averitt Center for the Arts at 7 p.m. Sunday.
    The School of Rock program consists of two bands.  A junior high band called “Sonic Boom” and a high school band, “The Chucks.” Both bands play original and diverse covers that express the many talents of the members of the ensemble.  Each group brings something different to the table, said Pladd Dot owner Chris Mitchell.
    The groups have been together in one variation or another for two years. This year both bands will perform at Universal Studios in Florida and Sunday's Emma Kelly performance is one of the primary fundraisers for the trip. 
    "The School of Rock program is designed to teach kids the music business, rehearsal techniques, and how to achieve the goals that you have set in mind for yourself,” Mitchell said. “Many members go on to develop other bands based on our model and we couldn't be happier — that's what this program is all about."
    Throughout the School of Rock's tenure band members have performed at local and out of town events, fundraisers, public schools and private parties. During the summer they will play at Epworth by the Sea at a camp for adults with disabilities.
    Both groups have also recorded demos and taken press photos as part of the program. 
    The lineup of Sonic Boom consists of Juliet Muldrew on vocals and guitar; Mary Peyton Freeman, vocals and guitar; Rose Edenfield, vocals and guitar; Brock Bowen, vocals and guitar; John Crowe, drums; and Ginna Groover on bass.
    The Chucks consist of Chas Wilson on vocals and guitar; Jake Manahan, vocals and guitar; Riley Lowery, guitar; Joseph Anderson, vocals and guitar; Josh Bunting, vocals and bass; and Kalonji Johnson on drums.
    “If you want to see an energetic program with talented students performing hits from yesterday, today, and tomorrow, check out the School of Rock this Sunday at the Emma Kelly Theater,” Mitchell said.