Our Premier High School Rock Band Program

Take the stage. Find your band. Make unforgettable music.

Blackbird Rock Co. is SNJ Studio of Music's premier rock band experience for passionate high school musicians. Throughout the season, students rehearse weekly, collaborate like a professional band, and perform live at events across the Omaha area.

This isn't just another ensemble. It's an opportunity to challenge yourself, grow as a musician, and experience what it's really like to be part of a working band.

Whether you're a vocalist, guitarist, bassist, drummer, or keyboardist, you'll rehearse, perform, create, and build lasting friendships with musicians who share your passion.

 

Our Philosophy

At Blackbird Rock Co., we believe the best musicians grow by making music together.

Our goal is to help students become confident, versatile musicians who learn to listen, collaborate, and support one another. Every rehearsal is designed to strengthen musicianship, develop stage confidence, and create an environment where students can take creative risks while having fun.

 

Why Join Blackbird Rock Co.?

Every member becomes part of a band that learns, rehearses, and performs together throughout the season.

As a member, you'll experience:

• Weekly coached rehearsals

• Live performances throughout the season

• Professional performance coaching

• Musical growth and confidence

• Stage presence and showmanship

• Collaboration with talented musicians

• Creative expression through live music

• Lasting friendships and unforgettable memories

Whether you dream of performing professionally or simply love playing great music with great people, Blackbird Rock Co. provides an inspiring and supportive environment where you'll continue to grow.

 

2026–2027 Season

Season: October 12, 2026 – May 2, 2027

Blackbird Rock Co. members commit to the full season.

​

Rehearsals

Mondays | 7:00–9:00 PM

SNJ Studio of Music – Millard Studio

5244 S. 136th Street

Omaha, NE 68137

​

Performances

Members will perform at community events and local venues throughout the season. Performance dates will be announced as they are confirmed.

 

Commitment

Because every band depends on every member, participation in Blackbird Rock Co. requires a season-long commitment.

Members are expected to:

• Attend weekly rehearsals

• Practice music independently between rehearsals

• Perform at scheduled concerts and community events

• Arrive prepared and on time for rehearsals and performances

• Communicate scheduling conflicts as early as possible

• Support fellow band members through collaboration and professionalism

Regular attendance is essential to the success of the group.

 

Parent Information

Parents play an important role in helping Blackbird Rock Co. succeed.

Families should plan to:

• Provide transportation to rehearsals and performances

• Support regular practice at home

• Help students arrive prepared and on time

• Commit to the full season before accepting a position in the ensemble​

​

Performance & Equipment Responsibilities

To help performances run smoothly, Blackbird Rock Co. members share responsibility for transporting equipment to and from performances.

Throughout the season, students will rotate bringing designated equipment (such as amplifiers, keyboards, stands, or other gear) to scheduled gigs and returning it afterward. A transportation schedule will be provided in advance so families can plan accordingly.

Members are also expected to assist with setup before performances and teardown afterward.

 

Tuition

$699

Installment Plan: $100/month (October–April)

 

Who Can Audition?

Students in grades 9–12 are welcome to audition.

You do not have to be an SNJ Studio of Music private lesson student to participate.

Applicants should have:

• A solid foundation on their instrument or voice

• Previous performance experience (school concerts, recitals, musical theatre, church worship teams, etc.)

• The ability to learn music independently between rehearsals

• A genuine interest in performing rock music

We are typically seeking talented:

• Female Vocalists

• Male Vocalists

• Lead Guitar

• Rhythm Guitar

• Bass

• Drums

• Keyboard

 

Auditions

Saturday, October 3

By Appointment Only

Each audition lasts approximately 10 minutes.

Audition appointments must be reserved in advance.

​

Callbacks

Saturday, October 10

Selected musicians will be invited to callbacks, where they'll play and collaborate with other finalists in a live band setting. Callbacks allow our directors to evaluate not only musicianship, but also communication, adaptability, and how students perform within an ensemble.

​

Audition Location

SNJ Studio of Music – Millard Studio

5244 S. 136th Street

Omaha, NE 68137

 

Audition Requirements

Auditions are relaxed, encouraging, and designed to help us get to know you as both a musician and a performer.

Each audition includes:

• One prepared rock song of your choice

• A brief conversation about your musical background and goals

• An opportunity for our directors to evaluate your technique, musicianship, and performance potential

Please bring:

• Your prepared song

• A backing track if your performance requires one

• Guitarists and bassists should bring their own instrument and amplifier

SNJ Studio of Music will provide:

• Drum kit

• Keyboard

• Microphones

 

How to Apply

1. Complete the online application.

2. We'll contact you to schedule your audition time.

3. Attend your audition.

4. Selected students will be invited to callbacks.

5. Accepted musicians will receive enrollment information for the upcoming season.

 

Application Deadline

Thursday, October 1

 

Questions?

Emily Boganowski

Program Director, Blackbird Rock Co.

eboganowski@gmail.com