Local musicians open music school for kids

From his throne behind the drums, a young boy begins to find the beat.

Roger Barraza joins in, playing the ominous riff from The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army,” as he locks eyes with his drummer and they play on.

More than just a place to rock out, this stage also is a place to learn.

Sound Stage 9 celebrated its grand opening Thursday night in east El Paso, it’s located at 11601 Pellicano Drive.

The new recording studio is described as a ‘school of rock’ by co-owners Roger Barraza and Jaime Aranda.

They are both musicians who agree there are not enough music outlets for children in El Paso.

Barraza returned recently to his hometown, after living in Dallas for some time.

“It’s something the El Paso community really needs. There are big cities like Dallas, L.A., Austin– they all have it, so we wanted to bring this concept to El Paso,” said Barraza.

Barraza and Aranda offer lessons in guitar, drums, piano and vocals, but they also focus on non-traditional classes for kids who aspire to be a rappers or disc jockeys in electronic dance music.

“That’s what’s in right now, the EDM (electronic dance music) scene. Since a lot of people want to be DJs, they can learn the structure,” said Barraza.

What children learn does not stay within the walls of the studio. Barraza said showcases are hosted once a month at the studio’s stage for friends and family.

It helps build self-confidence and stage presence said Barraza.

“We’ve also partnered up with local venues so we can start showcasing their talents out there too.”

Sound Stage 9 has a full recording studio available for professional singers and bands.

While the focus is on children and their talents, adult music lessons are also offered.

For more information, call (915) 201-8191.