The innovative program at Whitney Young features an almost entirely rock and blues-based curriculum, with an emphasis on performance, songwriting, soloing, guitar part-writing, theory and ear training. All while learning a lot of great songs. By 2015, after extensive feedback from students, the curriculum had slowly moved away from more traditional genres and evolved to its current rock and blues-based format. Every class essentially becomes its own rock band, with vocalists, bassists, and drummers. Second-year students and above play electric guitars and amps. To fill the void in relevant and available classroom material, in 2015 Mr. Peek began writing a set of books specifically for Whitney Young Guitar classroom use.
There are three basic levels to the program: Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced (nicknamed "Top Group"). Any incoming or existing WY student can sign up for Beginning Guitar classes. Intermediate/Advanced requires a short audition. Every year there are one-to-three Blue Combos for current advanced students to perform Chicago-based blues in a combo format. These meet either after school or during Enrichment periods and require auditions. We also frequently use outside vocalists and drummers (inquiries welcome!).
The program has grown tremendously since its inception. The concerts have grown in complexity and popularity as well, with the Spring Guitar Showcase regularly selling out multiple shows in the 500 seat capacity theater.