On Wednesday, Jan. 7, students of the Advanced Rock Ensemble class at State High made their debut performance of the school year. The group played various titles such as “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” by Journey, “Sugar” by System of A Down, and “Don’t Look Back in Anger” by Oasis. Advanced Rock Ensemble is an audition-based, primarily student-led class. At the end of each semester, the group performs a set of student-selected songs.
The group’s advisor, Mr. Paul Leskowicz, is also the concert and marching band director at State High. Leskowicz recently stepped into the position of Rock Ensemble advisor last school year.
“Mr. Leskowicz taking over the role was definitely a change,” junior Evan Zorn, guitarist, said. “He likes to put his own spin on things, which creates a good energy.”
The Advanced Rock Ensemble is not only a musical group, but a community.
“I have met some of my best friends through this program,” senior Bruno Sanzotti, percussionist, said. The class requires components of individual responsibility for learning parts and social skills, such as being able to work with a group.
Senior James Lukehart plays bass guitar at the Advanced Rock Ensemble concert. “Being around great musicians for years through the program has helped me improve,” Lukehart said. “These experiences have molded me into a more confident player.” (Julia Noel)Junior Teddy Schaeffer lights up the stage playing bass guitar. (Julia Noel)Junior Silas Dudash puts on a monumental performance at the Advanced Rock Ensemble concert. (Julia Noel)Senior Bruno Sanzotti joyously plays the drum set. “It’s even more than just playing my instrument,” Sanzotti said. “This class has taught me how to work with others and grow as a musician, but also a person.” (Julia Noel)Junior Aaron Turner shreds as the crowd ecstatically roars. (Julia Noel)Junior Teddy Schaeffer acts out a German pop song played at the Advanced Rock Ensemble Concert. (Julia Noel)Junior Evan Zorn shreds on the guitar. “Everyone is just so talented,” Zorn said. “Frankly, there isn’t enough music to go around.” (Julia Noel)Senior Gabe Gamson plays guitar during his last winter rock ensemble concert of his high school career. (Julia Noel)Junior Teddy Schaeffer waves the American Flag during the performance. (Julia Noel)Junior Teddy Schaeffer dances while performing at the Advanced Rock Ensemble concert. (Julia Noel)
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Julia’s Biggest Fan • Jan 15, 2026 at 4:06 PM
omg best of sno omg