Concert to raise funds for music nonprofit

Meyer, known for blending classical and rock styles, will perform with his band and feature several of his students alongside local Hood River youth. The event is part of Meyer’s annual Harmony in the Vineyard series, now in its third year. Meyer describes it as “elegant music with an edge. It’s a rock band playing classical music.”

Proceeds benefit Concert Rock Academy, Meyer’s nonprofit that provides music education through lessons, instrument access and performance opportunities, often at little or no cost. The academy matches students with teachers, collaborates with youth symphonies and hosts master classes and guest performances.

Meyer said the group received its own 501(c)(3) status in February after years of using the Oregon Music Hall of Fame as its fiscal sponsor. “We’ve been essentially, you know, operating under somebody else’s nonprofit for 25 years,” he said.

The organization develops resources to engage young musicians, including Practice Like a Rock Star, an online tool that makes rehearsing interactive, and Concert Rock Origins, a video series that re-imagines the works of composers such as Mozart, Beethoven and Bach through modern Concert Rock arrangements.

Meyer said Concert Rock Academy does not operate from a single building but instead delivers music education throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Concert Rock Academy has also expanded internationally, launching a violin program at the Vera Thomson English School in Myanmar, where Meyer continues to teach students online.

Stave & Stone Wine Estates is located at 3827 Fletcher Drive, Hood River. Tickets are $40-$60. More information and tickets are available at aaronmeyer.com/concert-rock-academy. Details on Meyer’s practice platform are available at PracticeLikeaRockStar.com.