Students Collaborate with Foreigner at Hard Rock Live
In an extraordinary opportunity, 25 aspiring musicians from various School of Rock locations throughout Broward County, Florida, took the stage alongside the iconic rock band Foreigner last Thursday evening at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood. This memorable experience allowed the students to perform the classic power ballad, “I Want to Know What Love Is,” from Foreigner’s 1984 album, Agent Provocateur.
Winning a Dream Opportunity
The students earned this chance by entering a radio contest that encouraged youth choirs to showcase their talents with the rock legends. Burny Pelsmajer, the owner of School of Rock Broward County, described the process that led to their selection. He stated, “Over the years, Foreigner puts out these radio contests and different contests to have student choirs perform with them, and we’ve seen this happen in the past. So we saw it, and we just made a video and submitted it to them, and they chose us.”
A Moment of Anticipation
The students, who had been rehearsing in eager anticipation, were only informed of their successful selection the previous week. One of the students, Ravi Rodriguez, shared his excitement, saying, “We had the audition, and we weren’t really sure if it was going to happen, and [Burny] was like, ‘So we got accepted, and I was like, ‘Oh, like we’re actually doing it now.’ I was like, ‘OK, cool.’”
Understanding the Legacy of Foreigner
While the band may hail from a different generation, the students have taken the time to appreciate Foreigner’s extensive musical history. Student Noah Markow mentioned, “I know ‘Cold As Ice,’ and I know ‘Juke Box Hero,’” showcasing their familiarity with the band’s hits. Another student, Antonia Albornoz, reflected on the significance of performing with such a legendary group: “Foreigner is a great band, legend. My parents, like, everyone in my family knows them, and it’s a great honor.”
Final Thoughts
Foreigner’s willingness to engage with upcoming musicians is a testament to the band’s enduring connection with their fanbase. This unique event was not only a significant moment for the students but also showcased their potential and passion for music. The collaboration highlighted the importance of mentorship in the arts and provided a lifetime memory for all involved.
Foreigner’s performance at Hard Rock Live was a one-night-only event, and the students expressed their gratitude and excitement for having participated in such an extraordinary music experience.
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