Renaissance High School for the Arts (RHSA) is a close-knit community where creativity and a culture of excellence go hand in hand. Students, parents, teachers, administrators and coaches share a common goal: providing a rigorous, well-rounded arts education in an atmosphere that’s as joyful as it is challenging.
You’re invited to tap into this energy when student musicians from RHSA perform at the school’s 4th Annual Battle of the Bands on Saturday, March 7 from 2 to 7 PM in At The Top, above Shannon’s at the corner of Broadway and Pine.
You’ll hear nine bands with distinct and diverse styles representing RHSA and other LBUSD schools. This is the first year all current students in the district were invited to participate.
Photo courtesy of Renaissance High School for the Arts
“Music is the soul of the world,” said RHSA sophomore drummer Adelah Rahni, who will be playing in her second Battle of the Bands. Junior bassist Isaiah Dinkins Jones, eavesdropping nearby, nodded in agreement. “I rate music as an 11 out of 10 in importance to my existence,” he declared. “It’s in me. I AM the music.”
Students graduate from RHSA with confidence, knowing they can take the tools they’ve learned and apply them in any industry they wish to enter. RHSA’s curriculum is centered around four Pathway strands: Fashion, Film, Performing Arts, and Visual Arts. RHSA faculty and coaches are working professionals in those realms, so students quickly become familiar with pro skills such as idea pitching, contract negotiations, and dealing with deadlines.
Photo courtesy of Renaissance High School for the Arts
“The whole notion of a working professional artist; It’s not a hobby,” said RHSA Pathway Facilitator Ron Bazer. “Students can take the creative and academic experience they gain here and put it in their pockets to use wherever they go, in or out of the arts world, whether they’re entering the workplace immediately or continuing their education.”
Dr. Michael Navia is in his seventh year as Principal of RHSA. He brings many years of administrative experience, having led the faculties of Cubberley K-8 School, Marshall Academy of the Arts Middle School, and Millikan High School. He’s also an accomplished DJ who will be spinning at the Battle of the Bands!
“I’ve been lucky because in my experience, an arts student is different from a regular student,” Navia explained. “In general, they’re much more engaged. They’re serious about their craft, and when you provide it for them their attitude becomes ‘I get to go to school.’ ”
Photo courtesy of Renaissance High School for the Arts
Parents have taken notice of the sense of community at RHSA, expressing gratitude for how much the school cares about their children. “Since starting at RHSA, my kiddo has really blossomed, and that’s because every student is encouraged to express themselves authentically,” said Allison Mocilnikar, a member of the school’s volunteer group Parents for the Arts (PARTS).
“PARTS is an amazing group of volunteers who host events, raise funds, and provide opportunities for our kids beyond the classroom, stage, or studio,” Mocilnikar continued. “Having parents so involved helps create a feeling that we at RHSA are all family. I think that’s one of the reasons our students thrive so much.”
You can contribute to these family vibes at the Battle of the Bands! Each ticket holder will receive a token which they can use to vote on their selection for the People’s Choice Award. The winning band gets $500. NOTE: If you shop at the merch booth you can get more tokens.
A panel of experts will select the winner of the Judge’s Choice Award based on excellence in musicality, performance, and showmanship. The top band receives $1,000 and a free one-song recording session.
Aside from being a great time for students, staff, and the general public, the Battle of the Bands is another way for RHSA to help young artists elevate their game. “This school offers mentorship,” said drum coach T.J. Fisher. “RHSA does an excellent job of supporting the entire journey of a student becoming not just a great artist, but a great person.”
To learn more about Renaissance High School for the Arts, click here.