In the heart of Del Ray, Alexandria and Del Ray native John Patrick continues to guide Rock of Ages Music (ROAM), a music school opened in 2011, with steady hands and a clear vision. Since our first interview with him in early 2023, things have remained stable at the school—a sign of strength for a creative space that thrives on momentum. “Alexandria nurtured my love of music and the arts when I was raised here, I’m happy to have a place to help anyone looking to explore their musical side” Patrick said.

“We haven’t made any radical changes, and that’s actually good news,” Patrick said. “What’s been exciting is the rise in young songwriters coming through ROAM. There’s real creative energy right now. Sometimes I think of it as the COVID effect. I feel like it gave people more time to create or even find out more about themselves.”

This wave of creativity has led to the launch of a songwriting workshop at ROAM. The workshop, Patrick explained, is open to all levels and focuses on supporting songwriters through the often frustrating process of songwriting. “It’s not just about finishing songs,” he said. “It’s about helping people understand their voice, structure, and how to bring everything together.”

The workshop covers everything—from lyrics and melody to arrangement. Patrick described students who come in with different strengths: a powerful singer looking for the right accompaniment, or a skilled guitarist needing help with lyrics. “Each person’s process is different, so we keep it flexible,” he said.

ROAM’s reach continues to grow, drawing students from Alexandria, Arlington, and beyond—including parts of Fairfax and even DC. Bands remain active, and Patrick says the influx of new talent hasn’t slowed.

Another quiet but important development is the school’s recording studio. “When we launched, it was mostly for internal use,” Patrick said. “Now we’re upgrading it to serve outside clients. By August, it’ll be fully operational.”

Patrick, who describes himself as a “musical junkyard,” still leans on students and coworkers to discover new music. “I don’t have a lot of time to dig deep anymore,” he admitted, “but I love it when someone plays me a band I’ve never heard of.” He listens widely—classics, modern, his daughter’s playlists and local acts.

ROAM’s impact is visible in the paths its students take. Some pursue college music programs; others head into entertainment law or music education. “It’s the best feeling when they come back and tell us how music is still part of their lives,” Patrick said. Even more meaningful? Having former students return as coaches and teachers at ROAM.

Looking ahead, Patrick has his eye on one major event: ROAM’s 15-year anniversary in September 2026. “We’ve got to do something big,” he said. “I’m thinking a huge neighborhood show. Multiple stages, alumni performances. Something that brings everyone back home.”