Pop/Rock/Blues/R&B

Explore the rich traditions, enduring influence, and ever-evolving sounds of Pop, Rock, R&B, and Blues.

MacPhail’s contemporary music faculty helps students build strong musicianship through individualized instruction, collaborative music-making, and performance opportunities. Rooted in the influential artists and styles that have shaped these genres, students develop their artistic voice while building confidence and a lifelong connection to music. 

Pop, Rock, R&B & Blues offerings include: individual lessons, ensembles, summer camps, performances, workshops, master classes, and school and community partnerships. 

Course Offerings

Age Groups

Instruments

Topics

Course Type

Semester

Locations

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Minneapolis

 – 

Fall 2026
Ensembles

Youth Rock Band Program – High School – FALL

Attention: guitarists, bassists, keyboard players, drummers, and singers!MacPhail’s newly revamped Rock Band program features collaborative rehearsals that are team taught by MacPhail faculty members whose credentials include years of performance...
Minneapolis

 – 

Fall 2026
Ensembles

Youth Rock Band Program – Middle School – FALL

Attention: guitarists, bassists, keyboard players, drummers, and singers! MacPhail’s newly revamped Rock Band program features collaborative rehearsals that are team taught by MacPhail faculty members whose credentials include years of...
Minneapolis

 – 

Fall 2026
Ensembles

Adult Rock Band – FALL

This 12-week immersive transforms individual practice into the excitement and collaboration of playing in a real band. Designed for adult drummers, bassists, guitarists, keyboardists, and vocalists, the workshop helps musicians...
Minneapolis

 – 

Fall 2026
Ensembles

Adult Latin Ensemble – Apple Valley

This 12-week immersive ensemble invites musicians to explore the rich rhythms, traditions, and collaborative spirit of Latin American music. Open to percussionists, bassists, guitarists, pianists, wind instrumentalists, and vocalists, the...
Minneapolis

 – 

Fall 2026
Ensembles

Sound Rebels Ensemble (ages 12-18) – FALL

The Sound Rebels Ensemble offers a judgment-free environment for instrumentalists and vocalists of all skill levels in their artistic development, to explore the heights and depths of creativity. Terrell X...

Individual Lessons

Develop your skills in Pop, Rock, R&B, and Blues through one-on-one instruction tailored to your interests and goals. Guided by experienced teaching artists who are active performers, recording artists, composers, and producers, students build strong musicianship, creative confidence, and the skills to express themselves through music.

Student Placement Form

Bands & Ensembles

Youth Rock Band (Middle School & High School)

Experience the excitement of playing in a real band. Guided by experienced teaching artists, students rehearse collaboratively, build ensemble skills, and prepare for a live performance while growing as musicians.  

Learn More – Middle School
Learn More – High School

Adult Rock Band

Take your musicianship beyond individual practice in this collaborative ensemble for adult instrumentalists and vocalists. Rehearse rock repertoire, build confidence playing with others, and perform in a live showcase at the end of the session.

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Adult Latin Ensemble

Explore the rhythms and traditions of Latin American music in a welcoming ensemble for instrumentalists and vocalists. Learn styles like Salsa, Son, and Bossa Nova while building musicianship through collaboration and performance. 

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Sound Rebels Ensemble (Ages 12 - 18)

A creative, judgment-free ensemble where young musicians explore hip hop, songwriting, beat making, improvisation, and artistic expression. Led by Carnage The Executioner (Terrell X) and Ben Abrahamson, Sound Rebels encourages students to take creative risks and discover their unique musical voice. 

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Meet MacPhail's Pop/Rock/Blues/R&B Faculty

William Brueggemann

Piano , Voice

Paul Kinkade

Piano , Guitar

Craig Anderson

Guitar
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