LEARN MORE
Rock Band and Music Production Program, Summer 2026
CONTACT US
The Animal Farm: Summer Sessions is a unique, locally-operated program for serious young instrumentalists to gain hands-on, critical experience making rock music in a professional studio setting, under professional guidance and with access to industry-standard gear.
Learn about how we’re inspiring young musicians to make music.
From the Program Director
This program is what I would have wanted, as a serious musician who was fascinated by recording studios and the alchemic process of capturing sound.
When I was young, I always felt as if the music I enjoyed did not have a place in traditional music education. While the past few years have proven that, societally, we are moving in new and innovative directions, public music education still has a long way to go: not only to include alternative and popular music, but to leverage technology in a way that is meaningful and prepares students for a potential career in music.
This program is what I would have wanted, as a serious guitarist who was fascinated by recording studios and the process of capturing sounds.
Students will get to experience both sides of the creative process; from working as a team to perform their songs, to engineering and mixing them. They will learn what it is like to fuel creativity through collective action and choice, and make something truly original and their own. From learning how to work in an ensemble, to placing a microphone in front of a drum, to balancing and sculpting the dozens of microphone channels to produce a finished product, students will walk away with a deeper understanding of, and appreciation for, the art of modern rock and roll production.
Dr. John Forrestal
SUMMER 2026 Sessions
For our first year in piloting this program, we’re offering three unique sessions, where we will hone in on a particular musical style. You can probably guess the genre and types of bands we’ll pull from, but if you have any questions, contact us!
90’s Grunge (July 27-31)
Smells like this program is straight ‘outta Seattle! Grab your Fender Jaguar and buckle up, partner.
Sweatervest Serenade (August 10-14)
Did you hear about that party after the show? It’s going to be so cool, brah. Feel like the ‘fonz playing some hit 90’s tunes—bowl cuts included!
Get in the (Nu-Metal) Mosh Pit! (August 17-21)
We’re knocking down fences like it’s Woodstock ’99. Are you ready?
Meet THE INSTRUCTORS
For our inaugural year, here’s the people behind (or in front of) the scenes that are making this program run smoothly.
John Forrestal
Director, Owner and Operator of The Animal Farm, Instructor
James Applegate
Assistant Director, Instructor
FAQs
What is The animal farm?
The Animal Farm is the name of the recording studio at which the program takes place. It’s a professional recording studio that has served bands as far-reaching as Italy, Australia, Germany, and the US of A.
What’s with the cow image everywhere?
The name of the studio came about because of our rescue cow, Harold (he’s technically a steer: no, you cannot milk him). We have raised him since a baby, and he is a fan favorite. Everyone that visits likes to give him pets, scratch under his chin, and try to feed him apples and carrots (he’s very picky: I think he’d rather eat Taco Bell).
The logo came about from a picture I took of him years ago, on a warm Summer evening. The light was perfect and it is as if he knew he was getting his picture taken. The logo is, in fact, a younger Harold!
How much does it cost?
Our pricing may vary depending on several factors. We’ve priced the program for this pilot year to be fair, and also to incentive families to consider registering their siblings, too.
I have more questions: how can I get in touch with you?
You can reach us by email at [email protected]. You can also reach us by our Google Voice line, 908-800-2379.
What age range does the summer sessions serve?
THE ANIMAL FARM | SUMMER SESSIONS is for high school students, grades 9-12. High-flying eighth graders may also apply. Students should be comfortable working with others, proficient on their instrument (specifics: please see the registration packet), and okay with independent and group work.
I want to book studio time for my uncle. He saw the pictures and thought the studio looks cool. How do i go about that?
Sure! You can email us at the emails listed before; or you can visit our studio instagram at @theanimalfarmnj.
Do you offer private lessons?
Absolutely! Speak to one of us if you are interested in continuing lessons with either of us at the end of this program.
I’m a little nervous, since this program is new and there isn’t much out there yet. how do i know my child is safe?
This is probably the biggest question we’ve doted over as well. We get it: both James and I are parents, with young children of our own. We know the apprehensive feeling of dropping your child off at an unfamiliar space (especially the more informal ones) and worrying about their safety.
To help quell those feelings, rest assured that we both are certified teachers in the state of New Jersey. Meaning, we’ve both been extensively background-checked, fingerprinted, and vetted. We work with children of all ages on the daily basis during the school year.
Our instructors also have formal training in First Aid, CPR, and AED, and have completed numerous Epi-Pen trainings. I have six years of experience teaching in the K-12 system in New Jersey, and cumulatively fourteen years of working with children and adults in educational settings.
All common rooms in the studio (i.e., no bathroom!) has 24/7 camera monitoring, with in-camera and DVR recording backup. This is to ensure the safety of all participants and teachers in this program. Additionally, the studio carries an additional short-term insurance policy for these summer programs, including general liability, professional liability, and injury. All rooms are outfitted with smoke/fire/CO detectors and fire evacuation maps. There are lit exit signs posted in the hallway to indicate the nearest exit for guests. Additionally, we keep a stocked first aid kit on-hand, in the event of any cuts, bumps, or bruises. (Students with allergies or medication needs should please specify those needs in the registration packet!)
RSVP
Join us in our inaugural year for a summer of rock and roll!
