05/03/2026
The BMCHSD Rock for Mental Health Concert, held on May 1st at Kennedy High School, was an unforgettable night of music, collaboration, and purpose—bringing together students, families, and the community in support of mental health awareness.
Student bands from the Bellmore Merrick Central High School District took the stage, showcasing their talent while uniting around an important mission: raising awareness and support for mental health. Each performance reflected not only musical excellence but also the passion, collaboration, and commitment of our students to making a positive impact. The concert highlighted the power of music to connect people, spark conversations, and inspire change.
The stage featured an incredible lineup of student performers from across the district, highlighting both musical excellence and unity. Performances included the Mepham Rock Band, M**S Rock Band, and M**S vocal group Word of Mouth, showcasing their musical talent. Grand Avenue’s band SPARK energized the audience, while two JFK Rock Bands delivered powerful sets that kept the momentum going throughout the night. Teachers were represented with their band Appetite For Instruction, with Mr. Prince on guitar.
Representing Calhoun High School were multiple outstanding groups. The Calhoun Vocal Group Pulse set included “Toxic”, by Brittany Spears and a standout arrangement of Billy Joel’s “Uptown Girl,” earning enthusiastic applause. Calhoun Rock Band White proudly represented the next generation of rock band students, performing Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'”, “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” (Pat Benatar) and two original songs; demonstrating the creativity and promise of these young musicians. Calhoun Rock Band Blue, made up largely of seniors and juniors, impressed the crowd with a challenging list of songs starting with Guns N’ Roses’ fan favorite, “Welcome to the Jungle”. They continued with a beautiful ballad by Keane, “Somewhere Only We Know” followed by “Am I Still Breathing” Green Day, showing the group talent spans all genres. “Golden,” the Academy Award–winning song from K Pop Demon Hunters finished the set and the crowd went wild.
Closing out the night in epic fashion, JFK Rock Band delivered a thunderous performance of “War Pigs” by Black Sabbath, followed by Sanitarium, who brought the concert to a powerful conclusion with a spot on rendition of Megadeth’s “Holy Wars.”
This incredible evening would not have been possible without Mr. Prince, whose heart, dedication, and support continue to inspire students. Special congratulations and a huge thank you go to Ben Roth and his team of volunteers and organizers, who successfully hosted their second Rock for Mental Health benefit concert, supported by friends, teachers, staff, parents, and the many generous local businesses that donated.
The Rock for Mental Health Concert once again proved the power of music to bring people together, spark conversation, and make a meaningful difference. Thank you to every student who performed, volunteered, attended, and believed in using music as a force for good.
