Talented teens rock Algonquin library

Teens with a broad range of musical talents showed off their skills Wednesday during Rock the Mic, an event hosted by the Music Industry Club of Harry D. Jacobs High School.

Six musical acts were on the set list for the event, which took place at the Algonquin Public Library, but additional students were encouraged to sign up to perform as well.

Acts included an original keyboard instrumental by self-taught musician Chris Ancira, 15; individual acoustic performances by Benjamin Zakes, 16, and Gabrielle Rife, 16, as well as a rock-fueled performance by the band Fairytale Massacre.

Cristy Worden, 17, who plays guitar in Fairytale Massacre, is a four-year-member of the club and has been president the past three years. Worden says she joined the Music Industry Club not only because of her love of the music, but also because, "not a lot of high schools are able to have a club this unique. So I really like the idea that something as simple as music could bind so many kids (together)."

The club, led by Jacobs teachers Craig Chatham, the club's founder, and Steve Stukenberg, has been in existence for five years and draws about 20-25 regular members at their bimonthly meetings. Chatham, who teaches history and economics, also has a background in music and created the group to give students an opportunity to experience the music industry - by being onstage, operating behind the curtain or even discovering artists. Club members also take field trips to recording studios, record companies and performance venues.

"We plan events, we talk about music and just enjoy music," Chatham said. "Sometimes they jam together and jam for us. It's a fun time."