Recess rocks at Pyle Elementary in Fresno

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Educators are always looking for different ways to engage their students.

Some very young Pyle Elementary students have been introduced to guitars. Fourteen donated guitars have definitely struck a chord. Once kids see the school's Rockin' Roller during recess and lunch, Pyle transformed into the school of rock.

The art of noise is music to the ears of Vice-Principal Rob Roellke. Roellke explained, "It's all about engagement especially learning a different intelligence, using a difference intelligence that they have too which they never knew they had."

Maybe the strumming relieved the stress of social studies.

Some guitars were way too big. Smaller 3/4 sized models would make it easier but the kids love them all.

Third grader Zackirah Williams played for us what he has learned.

Head custodian George Solorzano agreed to give after-school guitar lessons twice a week. Solorzano said, "To develop artistic outlet is basically what it is to develop that curiosity, that hunger, that drive."

Once Mr. Roellke displayed the guitars a few weeks ago, the kids were ready for a jam session. He said, "We've all started bands at one time or another and we have little bands going on here occasionally. Hey let's play this."

Kids without guitars kept the beat by banging on speakers.

Third grader Ralph Thomas said, "My dad always played guitar at home. When I was little I always watched him play guitar and I always wanted to try."

It sounded like a world renowned musical group tuning up for a performance.

Solorzano said, "It's like that old saying, how do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice."

Roellke hoped to also make violins and viola available for the students.