Rockschool

1 9 8 5 (UK)
8 x 25 minute episodes
1 9 8 7 (UK)
8 x 25 minute episodes

Rockschool (which was broadcast on BBC2 with repeat showings on BBC1) was designed to help aspiring rock musicians with hints and tips about performing in a band.

The series wasn’t for beginners, and it was taken for granted that anyone watching would already know the basics but want to move things forward.

With the aid of clips of bands in action and filmed reports from places like guitar factories, tuition came from Deirdre Cartwright (guitar), Henry Thomas (bass) and Geoff Nicholls (drums), who covered everything from the choice of equipment to how to play different styles of music, all in a no-nonsense, matter of fact style.

Rock names such as Carl Palmer, Ian Paice and Wilko Johnson offered their own advice, and a live roadshow was put together, giving audience members a chance to ask questions and provide feedback.

Two years later, a second series expanded the coverage to include vocals and keyboards (with additional presenter Alastair Gavin).

Presenters
Deirdre Cartwright (Guitar)
Henry Thomas (Bass)
Geoff Nicholls (Drums)
Alastair Gavin (keyboards)

Episodes

1985: Equipment | Tuning | Basic Technique | Blues | Heavy Metal | Funk | Reggae | The Future
1987: New Technology | MIDI | Melody | Soloing | Guitar and Drum Synths | Rhythm | Sampling and Harmony | Arrangement

Video