There was a feeling of mutual love, respect, and compassion in the room.

I'd never been to Pure Rock Studios in Rochester before, but I know that it's been a work in progress for some time now. When I checked on it last, owner Ryan Utterback mentioned that he'd love to recruit 500 students sometime soon.

If what this organization showcased last night is any indication as to what students really learn there, I'm just going to say potential students should sign up quick!

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If you haven't guessed by now, Pure Rock Studios is a safe haven for anyone, of any age or gender, wanting to pick up an instrument.

I got the exclusive on what it's really like to rock Pure Rock Studios during their first ever Open Mic Night.

I noticed that most of those who participated in this were younger. According to a study done by Northwestern University, and the Harmony Project, that will only help them in the long run. They explain, "Researchers found that after two years, children who not only regularly attended music classes, but also actively participated in the class, showed larger improvements in how the brain processes speech and reading scores than their less-involved peers."

However, as I mentioned previously, all genders, most age groups, and several genres of music were represented last night. I heard pop songs, country songs, rock songs, punk songs, and even some raps. Everyone was into every bit of it.

Allow me to introduce you to some of Pure Rock's finest.

Kelsea Ballerini, Green Day, and Ed Sheeran covers definitely happened, but what amazed me about this group is that just as many original songs were performed too.

Sterling Haukom described it best when he got on stage and said (in so many words), "This is a place where you can mess up. You don't want to that during a performance, but here you can." It's that kind of feel that proves to me that Pure Rock Studios really is a safe place for artists to grow and hone their craft.

I'd like to extend a big thank you to Ryan Utterback and Dylan Hilliker for inviting me to MC this awesome experience! Thank you! I'll be back again.

The next Open Mic Night at Pure Rock Studios is being held on July 11th. There are 10-15 slots available every other Tuesday night this summer. Students, and Rochester residents are welcome.

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