Students create their own music on the John Lennon Bus

Five Skyline High School students had the chance of a lifetime to make music inside a tour bus dedicated to a musical legend.

The John Lennon Educational Tour Bus made its way to Idaho Falls on Tuesday. Students at Skyline High School got the chance to produce their own music. They wrote lyrics, produced tracks, put it all together and made a music video — all in one day.

“This is some of the best equipment I’ve ever been around and the people here are just amazing people. They’re easy to talk to and they’re great when it comes to helping us figure out stuff and learning new things,” said Jordan Schmitt , a junior who is the drummer of the group.

The high schoolers, who were recommended by teachers and other students based on their musical experience, were more than eager and grateful to participate.

“I was super excited because anything that has to do with music is super important to me. Music is a really big part of my life,” said Emily Hart, a senior who helped write the song on the piano.

For the students, coming up with their own masterpiece in this setting was unforgettable.

“I’ve only really played at home so this is kind of a new experience. It’s kind of putting myself out there, which is kind of not something I’m used to,” Hart said.

“This experience gives you a little taste of what it might be like touring when you’re out of high school or recording your own music and writing. I think this gives me a great idea of what my future might look like, because after high school I hope that music will be a big part of my future,” said Marissa Haacke, a junior who is the group’s lead vocalist.

The final production of their project, the song and a music video, will be completed in about a week. Tuesday’s Skyline High School stop was sponsored by Juniper Networks and, its local affiliate, Tek-Hut.

The John Lennon Tour Bus will make its next stop in Pocatello later this week.