Jessica Downs: From a Rockwall School of Music Student to an RSM teacher

04/19/2022

Jessica was one of our very first piano students. Her mom worked as a local public-school teacher and knew firsthand the value of music and the benefit of consistent practice, so Jessica always came to her lessons prepared. In addition to playing her assigned pieces, she often sang while playing. Through elementary school and on into middle school, Jessica made tremendous progress on her piano skills, singing every step of the way.

It was no surprise when we received the call saying Jessica auditioned for the school choir and was accepted, primarily because of her pitch-matching skills and superb sightreading skills, which she attributes to her strong keyboard background.

Once her focus area shifted from piano to singing, she discovered she had an amazing voice that ultimately earned her college scholarships toward her bachelor’s degree in music.

In the Fall of 2021, after graduating from college, she moved back to the Rockwall area, and in January 2022, she became a private lesson voice teacher at the Rockwall School of Music.

‘Rockwall School of Music played different roles in my life. They gave me the opportunity to explore my love of music. Without them, my life would have taken a very different path. I can’t imagine not having music in my life.’ Jessica Downs

City Proclaims June 9 as Rockwall School of Music Day

City Proclaims June 9 as Rockwall School of Music Day

ROCKWALL, TX (June 3, 2026) — A milestone three decades in the making was celebrated at Monday night’s Rockwall City Council meeting as Russ and Karen Porter, owners of Rockwall School of Music, were presented with an official proclamation declaring June 9, 2026, as...

Rockwall School of Music Receives National Award of Excellence!

Rockwall School of Music Receives National Award of Excellence!

We’re still beaming with excitement and gratitude—and we couldn’t wait to share the news with our wonderful Rockwall community! Karen and I are absolutely thrilled to announce that Rockwall School of Music has been honored with the Award of Excellence from the Music...

The Best in Rockwall. Rockwall School of Music is professionals.., has talented, caring instructors and team members who genuinely care about their students and experiences. Dana K Macalik.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Dana, for the wonderful review and high praise. We're thrilled our instructors and team have made a positive impact and appreciate you recognizing their talent, care, and professionalism. We look forward to continuing to support your musical journey.
Rockwall school of Music for everyone and if nobody nows About Music. Music can save your life and world

I thank the staff the people is so nice and I thank you for that. Thank to Rockwall school of Music for given me this home I have Music now back into my life
Response from the owner:Thanks, Vance. We love having you as a student and so impressed with the progress you have made.
To everyone at Rockwall School of Music, Happy 30th Anniversary!!! Russ Porter is just amazing and they are the absolute best music school you will find!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Kyle, for your support through the years and for the kind words.
Congratulations on serving the Rockwall and Greater Dallas area for 30 years - providing musical instruction at the highest level. The musical world is a better place because of the artistic instruction that goes on weekly at the Rockwall School of Music.

It is a privilege to recommend the Rockwell School of Music to all those seeking a place to learn, polish, and enhance their musical skills. I have know the owners, Russ and Karen Porter, since our college days in the School of Music at Ouachita Baptist University and then at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

A few years ago I also became a student at The Rockwall School of Music when for Christmas my wife, Rhonda, bought me a violin and purchased lessons for me at the school. It was a treat to go back into the practice room and begin to learn a new musical instrument. Their musical legacy in Rockwall is second to none - with hundreds of students, young and old, taking lessons each week.

Bravo! Rockwall School of Music!

Brad Rountree - Worship Pastor
New Liberty Baptist Church
Garland, Texas
Response from the owner:Thank you, my friend, for those kind words. Having someone speak to our business from several different perspectives is such a blessing to read. Thank you again.
We love Rockwall School of Music! Congratulations on 30 wonderful years of bringing safe, competent and FUN music lessons to the community. The owners, Russ and Karen, care so much for their students, staff and community.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Wendy, for the post celebrating our 30th anniversary and speaking to the level of music education we strive to provide.
Congratulations on 30 years of music 🎶 this is a huge milestone and worth celebrating!!! Thank you for your dedication and positive impact on Rockwall.
Response from the owner:Amanda, thank you so much for celebrating our 30-year milestone with such kind words! We're honored to have been part of Rockwall's music scene and grateful for supporters like you. Your encouragement inspires us to keep creating and giving back to the community.
Rockwall School of Music is amazing! They truly care about helping their students succeed in learning music. They have teachers who can teach you any instrument. Highly recommend!
Response from the owner:Thank you, William, for the wonderful five-star review. We’re thrilled our caring teachers have helped you succeed and that you appreciate our ability to teach many instruments. Your recommendation means a lot to our team. We look forward to supporting your musical journey and hope to see you at future lessons or recitals.
The Rockwall School of Music is an amazing place for the music community in and around Rockwall! The staff is polite, educated and completely dialed for a perfect experience. We LOVE the location! Please don't ever leave our community!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Victor, for those affirming words of encouragement. The heart-felt sentiment is greatly appreciated.
The best place and school for music learning and passion! Rockwall School of Music is a forever staple and I'm grateful for their 30 year anniversary celebration!!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much Dr. Tamez for that incredible affirmation of our business and our anniversary.
Rockwall School of Music is a blessing to the community and everyone it serves. They care about every student and helping them progress towards their goals. Highly recommend!
Response from the owner:Joshua, thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation. We’re thrilled to hear Rockwall School of Music has been a blessing and that our team is helping students progress toward their goals. We appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to serve the community and your musical journey.