HISTORY

ROC Star Academy was created by Elvio Fernandes in 2009  to motivate the confidence and “rock star” in every kid.

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Before being personally invited by Chris Daughtry to join his multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated band, Elvio performed for several years with Rochester bands, most notably with Uncle Plum. That is where he began connecting with kids and inviting them onstage while he played festivals and events and crafted the idea to start Camp ROC Star.

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The success of the program, plus student and parent high demand, fueled the formation of the year-round ROC Star Academy in 2017. The music academy is housed at Piano Works in East Rochester, with a performance hall and studios and practice rooms. Here youth artists are coached by professional working musicians and get the opportunity to perform at venues across the region. Students study vocals, guitar, bass, piano, drums, saxophone, studio recording music production, and performance.

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There are more than 200 students studying at ROC Star Academy, including 20 bands that play the hottest stages in Rochester, including Iron Smoke, Buntsy’s, Lovin’ Cup, Lincoln Hill, Fairport Music Festival, and Lilac Festival. There are several alumni artists and bands who honed their craft and confidence at the Academy, including BB Dang, Judah, Max Doud, and more.

 

Although Elvio writes, records, performs, tours worldwide, and plays arenas full of adoring fans with Daughtry, what Elvio wants most as his legacy is ROC Star Academy. "I want kids to feel like rock stars. They get in this program, they get onstage, they feel cool and confident. That’s what matters."