a.r.k
Acoustic rock for kids

Get ready to sing, dance and rock out with Acoustic Rock for Kids featuring John Kerns! With one guitar and one powerful voice, Kerns brings kids and families together for a high-energy, interactive journey through the joy of rock music.

With catchy tunes and rock & roll classics, Kerns gets little rockers moving, grooving and learning to be rockstars of their own.  Singing, dancing, following playful instructions and learning “rock moves” are what these live performances are all about.  

Perfect for small or large groups, birthday parties, schools, libraries and festivals, Acoustic Rock for Kids is professional, wholesome and packed with fun!

Let’s make some noise, because every day is a great day to rock!​

John Kerns is a powerhouse musician, songwriter, and producer who brings a world of sound to every performance. With an arsenal of guitars, foot-percussion stomp boxes, looping pedals, and multiple microphones, he layers intricate textures into both original songs and covers, creating a dynamic and immersive musical experience. His performances blend soaring vocal harmonies, expressive guitar solos, and an extensive song catalog, captivating audiences in settings ranging from intimate bars to vibrant churches.

A lifelong musician, Kerns comes from a deeply rooted musical family—his grandfather led a dance band in the 1930s-1950s, his father was a high school band director, and his mother is a voice and piano instructor. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance from Gustavus Adolphus College in 1997, he began teaching private guitar and bass lessons while expanding his career as a performer and composer.

Kerns has written and produced music for corporate clients such as DuraTech Industries, Lutheran Youth Encounter, Faith Incubators, Fruits of the City, and Solomon’s Porch. A versatile artist in the Twin Cities music scene, he has spent 25 years as Minister of Music at Spirit Garage, where he honed his skills in leading musicians of all experience levels, songwriting, worship leadership, and music production—culminating in three original music albums.  Beyond faith-based music, he has worked with a variety of bands and musicians, including Jonathan Rundman, Jambalaya, Natalie Lovejoy, and Scott Laurent.

Kerns’ personal projects include his rock band Kerns and the Hemispheres, which produced his debut original album Electron Drive, as well as Cradlesongs, an original children’s music album. His current endeavors include The Tree House Scholars (a COVID-lockdown-inspired recording collaboration), Sir Psycho (a Red Hot Chili Peppers tribute band), The Bazillions (Kid-friendly rock band) and Acoustic Rock for Kids (ARK), where he brings interactive, engaging music performances to young audiences.

Wherever he plays, John Kerns leaves a lasting impression with his ability to transform a solo performance into a full-band experience, making music that moves, inspires, and connects.