Sammamish Rock Band offers composition and theory classes to young musicians
For most young musicians, their journey starts out with learning pieces like Hot Cross Buns. However, Sophie Price encourages students to explore music in a different light. Sammamish Rock Band, founded by Price in 2021, provides Sammamish youth with music composition and theory lessons to instill a deeper interest in music from a young age.
“I wanted to expose kids to crucial music skills that aren’t discussed in school,” Price, 32, said. “That’s why I love to teach composition and music production.”
Sammamish Rock Band meets every Saturday near Inglewood Middle School. From October through June, students aged 7 to 13 are taught concepts such as lyrics writing, rhythm and ear training, and group playing. Group lessons cost $250 per month. Price also offers private lessons for guitar, bass, keyboard, voice, drums, composition, and production for $70 per hour. Additional one-week camps occur from April through August for $490.
Price’s teaching philosophies are a culmination of her own experience. She grew up in the Seattle area, and her interest in music began with her mother, who founded a music program at Price’s elementary school.
Later, Price obtained a bachelors degree in music education from Queens College in New York City, and a masters of music in composition for film from the Seattle Film Institute. After graduating, Price worked in New York City, but she eventually moved to Sammamish to find a better work-life balance.
“I used to be a film composer in New York,” Price said. “But I figured out that I liked teaching a lot as well. So, when I moved to Sammamish, I decided to combine the two.”
So far, Price’s method of teaching has been highly regarded by her students.
“She listens to our ideas and opinions and makes lessons fun. Thanks to her help, I feel way more confident in my music and I’m grateful to have Ms. Sophie as my music teacher,” Ranveer Nagar, 13, said in an email to the Sammamish Independent.
Price encourages students of all levels to try out her classes. She wants to inspire them to keep learning music for life.
“No matter how experienced they are in music, there is always something that they can learn here,” Price said.
To learn more about the Sammamish Rock Band, please visit their website.
