A local elementary school teacher is creating a School of Rock program in Port Townsend, moving from its first public announcement to the beginning of classes in just one week’s time.

“We are building the plane while it’s in the air,” said Salish Coast Elementary School music teacher Tristan Marcum. “We are figuring it out as we go, and want to keep it affordable and accessible so every kid who is interested can participate.”

The local program made a dynamic takeoff since Markum posted a Facebook request for equipment on Jan. 15. After gaining approval from school administrators, the first classes were scheduled to begin Jan. 23. Sessions take place from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and from 2:50 to 3:50 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This schedule is designed to facilitate the greatest amount of student participation.

“School of Rock” is a 2003 comedy film starring actor Jack Black, who poses as a substitute teacher and schools his elementary students on the finer points of rock and roll. Marcum doesn’t seek to emulate the movie, calling it a touchstone rather than a blueprint. The biggest difference is that Marcum—unlike Black’s character—does not want to be part of the band. He said he is acting as a coach, guiding kids through the creative process.

Marcum, 45, is in his sixth year of teaching at Salish Coast Elementary and plays keyboards in three local bands: Kilcid Band, Marco Marco, and the Love Pops.

He said he won’t push students toward one musical form or another, but rather will encourage their creative impulses. They might choose to play cover versions, or write their own songs. Reading music could be part of the program, but learning chord progressions provides a faster path to songwriting, Marcum said. 

His initial post attracted numerous positive responses and donations from local music luminaries. Quimper Sound owner James Schultz donated several items, including drums, guitars, amplifiers, and a PA. Rainshadow Recording owner Everett Moran said he would donate studio time when students are ready.

“This is the beginning of a bigger thing,” Schultz said. “The challenge is to go out to the music teachers and develop this program for both Jefferson and Clallam counties.”

He said the program’s long-term benefit is in teaching kids how to communicate with each other as a team, using the language of music. 

Schultz, who recently consolidated his guitar business in Port Townsend, has contributed equipment to several schools, even granting a $750 shopping spree to students. He already contributed several thousand dollars worth of equipment to the School of Rock project.  

“I'm normally a horrible human being,” Schultz laughed. “But I’m generous when it comes to sending people down the evil path of rock 'n' roll.”

Aside from material contributions, Marcum is hoping to get people with knowledge about rock music and performance to share it with the class.

For more information, and to donate gear or volunteer your time, contact Marcum at tmarcum@ptschools.org.