Below is a summary of an article published in Draper Lifestyle Magazine in Oct 2016. And though we’ve grown up a little since then, we’re still chasing the dream.
In 2009, Jared Barney founded Rock University Guitar School in Draper with the desire to pass on the gift of guitar to others. His vision was not just to teach guitar, but to help students build confidence and self-esteem through music. Out of this idea, Rock U Live was born — a showcase that goes beyond a simple recital.
Each year, Rock U Live brings in lighting trusses, staging gear, and even food for the green room, creating a true rock concert experience for students. What began as one small Saturday show has grown into a two-day event with six performances and more than 120 young musicians.
Draper Lifestyle magazine invited families and friends to vote for their favorite Rock U Live performers. Here are the top 15 Kids Who Rock.
🎸 The Lesueur Sisters – Lucy (12) & Kate (19)
- Lucy has only been playing for 11 months but already shines. Inspired by her sister Kate, she dreams of forming a musical duo and balancing guitar with her love of soccer and reading. Her Rock U nickname? “Chicken Noodle Soup.”
- Kate started guitar at age 4 and grew into both a performer and teacher. Inspired by Jared Barney, she now mentors others and dreams of performing as a duo with Lucy.
🎸 Brunton Martinson (15)
Brunton has been playing for six years. One of his most unforgettable moments was when his teacher hoisted him onto his shoulders after a concert performance. Though he first considered drums, Brunton found his true calling in guitar, which he says brings him happiness and fulfillment.
🎸 BroBand – Blake (9) & Kellen (13) Hullinger
- Blake started a year ago, inspired by his older brother, and dreams of becoming the most successful musician ever.
- Kellen has been playing for two years and got his start in New Zealand. Inspired by his dad, he now dreams of being remembered as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Together, they perform locally and even tour in places like Boise, Phoenix, and Florida.
🎸 Gavin Thomas (14)
After seeing his brother play, Gavin picked up guitar at eight years old. His favorite memory is playing “Blackbird” by The Beatles at his first Rock U Concert. His dream? To share the stage with John Mayer.
🎸 Lucy Wilder (15)
With 10 months of guitar experience and a love for ukulele, Lucy was inspired by her older brother and sister. She fondly remembers sneaking into her brother’s room to strum his guitar, and now enjoys performing at Rock U Live.
🎸 Kamdyn Simons (7)
At just seven, Kamdyn already loves the stage. Inspired by her brother, she dreams of playing alongside Taylor Swift and says, “Rock University is the BEST!”
🎸 Colter Barney (10)
Colter has been playing for 2.5 years. His first Rock U concert left him hooked, and his “Uncle Jared” inspired him to keep going. He credits guitar for opening up a new world of music in his life.
🎸 Alyssa Brown (14)
Alyssa began playing guitar four years ago. She loves shows like American Idol and The Voice and dreams of making it onto one herself. Her favorite memory? An impromptu backyard concert for neighbors during a family trip. Her ultimate dream is to release an album of original music.
🎸 Zach Gardner (16)
For Zach, guitar isn’t just an instrument — it’s part of who he is. Starting with a toy guitar as a child, he grew into a passionate player guided by Jared Barney. His dream is to teach guitar and help others find joy in it.
🎸 Hannah Brown (15)
Hannah plays both piano and guitar and has a passion for singing. Inspired by her uncle, she quickly learned chords and started writing her own songs. Her dream is to perform on a huge stage with the audience singing along to her music.
🎸 Kaylee Rigby (14)
Kinlee first played guitar at her grandfather’s 70th birthday party. Inspired by her church’s worship team, she dreams of leading worship and performing on stage with Taylor Swift.
🎸 Max Summerhays (11)
Inspired by his grandfathers and uncle, Max has been playing for two years. His ultimate dream is to become a guitar teacher and share his love of music with kids.
🎸 Sophie Poulson (11)
Sophie began playing guitar at five or six years old. One of her favorite memories is performing a singing telegram for her cousin’s promposal. Her dream is to sing the national anthem at a Real Salt Lake soccer game.
🎸 Kate DeBry (12)
With five years of guitar experience (and violin too), Kate was inspired by both her dad and Taylor Swift. She dreams of writing songs and performing them in concerts.
🎶 Final Thoughts
These 15 kids are proof that music is more than notes on a page — it’s about dreams, confidence, and self-expression. Whether playing for family, performing at Rock U Live, or dreaming of world tours, these young guitarists remind us that kids really do rock.
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