Bass Guitar Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Vocal Teacher, Owner, General Manager
Andrew Walen, a magna cum laude graduate from Berklee College of Music ('95), seamlessly blends his extensive music industry experience with his passion for education at the School of Rock in Pikesville, Maryland. His journey began with internships at top management companies for Aerosmith and Pat Metheny, taking him from Boston to Nashville where he thrived as a singer/songwriter and guitarist. Known for his performances in the iconic Lower Broadway clubs, Andrew released several CDs and had his songs recorded by artists across various genres, including children's music, R&B, rock, and country. Andrew later shifted his talents to music journalism, writing for both local and national publications. His most challenging and rewarding role, however, came as a stay-at-home father to his son George, who required special medical care. Seeking stability for his family, Andrew earned a degree in social work from the University of Tennessee and built a successful 20-year career as a psychotherapist and mental health executive in Nashville and Baltimore. In 2021, Andrew retired from corporate work to support George through the emotional and physical challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Once the crisis passed, Andrew felt drawn back to his first love: music. He opened the School of Rock in Pikesville, where he combines his deep industry knowledge and therapeutic skills to inspire and mentor the next generation of musicians. Andrew continues to write, record, and perform in the Baltimore and DC areas, nurturing his enduring love for music while fostering a vibrant community of young rockers.
Bass Guitar Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Vocal Teacher, Assistant General Manager
With over 30 years of experience as a professional musician, Bob has built an exceptional career blending artistry, technical expertise, and leadership. A classically trained church organist and tenor soloist, Bob's performances resonate in both sacred and secular spaces, captivating audiences with his vocal and instrumental talents. From leading heartfelt renditions in church services to energizing crowds at weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings, his versatility shines. He studied music at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), with a focus on recording technologies that combined his academic background with decades of hands-on experience. His work as a freelance musician spans various bands and events, showcasing his adaptability in diverse genres, including rock, jazz, and classical music. Beyond the stage, Bob has demonstrated impressive business acumen, managing a small construction company for 25 years. His expertise in operations, scheduling, customer relations, and inventory management has honed his ability to lead teams and deliver outstanding results under pressure. Bob is the father of 3, and when he's not at work or with his mostly grown kids, he can be found skateboarding around Baltimore or rock climbing across the state.
Bass Guitar Teacher, Drum Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Vocal Teacher, Music Director
David is a seasoned musician and producer based in Baltimore, with 23 years of experience spanning local stages, national tours, and international performances. His passion for music has driven his career, where he dedicates himself to inspiring others to create and perform.
David’s journey began as a drum instructor at the School of Rock in Towson, where he helped students develop their musical skills and discover their creative potential. He served for three years as the school's music director. David now leads our program at the School of Rock in Pikesville, Maryland, applying our innovative curriculum, coordinating live performances, and mentoring both students and instructors. His leadership fosters a collaborative and supportive environment, helping musicians of all ages build confidence, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for music.
In addition to his work at School of Rock, David serves as a music producer at SongBuilder Studios in Catonsville. There, he collaborates with artists to produce and mix tracks across all genres, helping clients elevate their songs to professional levels that resonate with audiences worldwide. His expertise spans songwriting, recording, and delivering polished productions that bring each artist’s unique voice to life. David lives in Baltimore City with his fiancé, and can often be found skateboarding around town or sampling some of the great restaurant and bar spots that make our city so vibrant!
Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Little Wing Teacher, Rookies Teacher
Gabby brings a dynamic blend of educational experience, performance expertise, and a passion for fostering musical growth to her role as a Music Instructor at the School of Rock Pikesville. She teaches piano and guitar and will also work with our Little Wing, Rookies, and Rock 101 groups. A dedicated Music Education major at Towson University with a focus on instrumental music, Gabby is on track to graduate in 2025. Her academic journey is distinguished by prestigious honors, including winning Towson University’s 2024 Concerto Competition and the 2022-2023 Talent Award Competition in the woodwind division.
Gabby's teaching foundation is built on hands-on experience in elementary and middle school settings. During her internships at Carney Elementary School and Cockeysville Middle School, she taught general and instrumental music, working with a diverse range of students, including those in special education. Her collaborative approach, working alongside music educators and paraprofessionals, strengthened her ability to connect with students of varying skill levels and needs.
As a versatile musician, Gabby has an extensive performance background spanning collegiate ensembles and community groups. Her passion for live performance has also led her to stages in musical theatre productions, including Spelling Bee at Northwood High School and various showcases like Towson’s annual Prism event.
Beyond her academic and performance accomplishments, Gabby has honed her leadership and organizational skills in various professional roles, from shift lead positions to research roles aimed at expanding accessibility in fitness programs for individuals with disabilities. Her commitment to inclusivity and community engagement directly informs her teaching philosophy—ensuring that every student feels empowered to express themselves musically.
At School of Rock Pikesville, Gabby is excited to share her love of music with the next generation of rockers, fostering creativity, technical skill, and a lifelong appreciation for music in her students. When not at School of Rock, you can probably find Gabby baking something delicious!
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Joe is a seasoned guitarist, bassist, and music educator with over two decades of experience inspiring students of all ages and skill levels. As a Guitar and Bass Instructor at School of Rock Pikesville, Joe brings a dynamic approach to music education, focusing on personalized lessons and hands-on performance opportunities that help students thrive both as individual musicians and as part of a band.
Joe’s teaching career spans over 20 years, during which he has taught private lessons to students ranging from ages 7 to 75. His lesson plans are tailored to meet each student’s individual goals, whether they’re picking up an instrument for the first time or preparing for live performances. Joe also has extensive experience directing student bands, managing set lists, organizing rehearsals, and guiding groups of musicians toward successful stage performances.
As a versatile performer, Joe has entertained audiences in diverse settings. His ability to play a wide range of genres, from classical guitar to contemporary pop, allows him to connect with audiences and students alike, regardless of musical taste. Beyond the classroom and stage, Joe is also an accomplished composer and recording artist. His technical expertise extends to recording and music production, with hands-on experience using industry-standard software like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Q-Base. Joe’s background in audio engineering ensures that his students gain exposure not only to performance but also to the technical side of music creation.
At School of Rock Pikesville, Joe is excited to share his passion for music and help students unlock their potential, one chord at a time. When not playing or at School of Rock, you can find Joe with his video camera in nature taking unique videos.
Drum Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher
Dominic is a seasoned drummer, educator, and performer with an extensive career in live performance, studio recording, and music instruction. Best known as the drummer for the blues/rock band Steel Chin Jimmy, Dominic has played alongside an impressive lineup of artists, including Maureen Jeffries, Jo Sallins, DJ Fella, Sekou Haze, Therron Fowler, Andre Harris, Benjamin Marsh, and many more. Currently, he is the driving rhythmic force behind his own project, DRK Nites Trio, as well as R&B artist Ella Nicole, hip-hop artist Raw Facts, Involuntary Movement, The Shaun Peace Band, and the Hall Williams Band. His vast musical experience spans genres such as R&B, jazz, rock, pop, hip-hop, funk, and fusion, making him a versatile and dynamic instructor at School of Rock Pikesville.
As an educator, Dominic has been teaching drums to students of all ages, helping them build technical skills, musicality, and confidence behind the kit. His experience includes leading drum clinics at venues such as Shockwave Magazine, Versatile Ambiance, ZHBC Drum Clinic, and B'more United Drum Clinic, where he shares his expertise with aspiring drummers. In 2013, Dominic released his solo album, "Forward Motion," showcasing his talent as a recording artist and composer. His work has been featured internationally, with his song "48 Hours" gaining airplay in the UK. As the 2013 Next Great Drummer International Winner, Dominic continues to push the boundaries of his craft, inspiring the next generation of musicians.
At School of Rock Pikesville, Dominic brings his passion for music, extensive performance background, and hands-on approach to teaching, ensuring that every student develops a solid foundation in drumming while embracing the joy of live performance. When not playing or teaching, you can find Dominic spending time with his wife and kids.
Bass Teacher, Drum Teacher
Georgia brings a wealth of experience as a seasoned musician and an accomplished instructor to School of Rock Pikesville. A former School of Rock student and instructor, Georgia has firsthand knowledge of the program’s dynamic, performance-based approach to music education. Her deep understanding of the curriculum and years of professional experience as a drummer and bassist make her an invaluable mentor to aspiring musicians.
As an instructor at School of Rock Baltimore, Georgia was consistently praised for her ability to engage students of all skill levels, creating an inclusive and inspiring learning environment. Initially specializing in drums, she quickly expanded her role to include bass instruction, group rehearsals, and camp leadership. Her experience teaching advanced students and leading ensembles has honed her ability to break down complex musical concepts while keeping lessons fun and engaging.
Beyond teaching, Georgia is an active performer in the Baltimore music scene, playing drums for various bands spanning jazz, punk, metal, and electronic music. She holds a B.A. in Jazz Performance from Towson University and has performed in settings ranging from wedding bands to experimental music showcases. With a passion for helping students understand and internalize music, Georgia is dedicated to fostering the next generation of musicians at School of Rock Pikesville. When she's not teaching or playing music, you can find Georgia writing or researching for her music blog.