Our Experienced Music Teachers
All of School of Rock Reno’s music teachers are experienced musicians devoted to helping students attain musical proficiency. Our instructors guide students one-on-one to personalize learning, inspire confidence and build social skills.
Owner
School of Rock combines Rick's passions for music, education, entrepreneurship, and the local Reno community in which his family lives. Rick has had a successful career in the internet technology/marketing space, taught college business, mentored and invested in over 100 startups, skied on all seven of the world's continents, and has been playing music since the fifth grade.
After many years, Rick is still regularly in touch with his high school bandmates!
General Manager
Robbie Xavier brings a diverse and impactful musical background to School of Rock. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Music Performance from The Musicians Institute, he combines academic knowledge with extensive practical experience in performance, sound engineering, production, and project management. Robbie's passion for music education is deeply rooted in his community, having previously shared his expertise with students at School of Rock and the Boys & Girls Club of America. These experiences have solidified his commitment to nurturing young musicians and fostering their creative development. His ability to connect with students, coupled with his strong understanding of music theory and technology, makes him an invaluable mentor.
Music Director
Travis is a professional music educator from the San Fernando Valley, just outside Los Angeles. He began teaching private saxophone lessons as a high school student and has taught music ever since. He earned his bachelor's degree in music education while playing electric bass for his band, Blue Velvet Drapes, and working as a marching band coach.
After earning his BA, Travis moved to Seattle to earn his MA in music education at the University of Washington and teach middle school band. While there, Travis focused his research on best practices for teaching popular music and taught private and group lessons at the School of Rock in Bellevue, Washington. He moved to Reno to be closer to his family and is excited to be a part of the School of Rock Reno community!
Guitar Teacher
Andy Kimberly's guitar journey began at the age of 12, sparked by the raw energy of an Alice Cooper video. From that moment, the guitar became his lifelong passion. Turning professional in 2004, Andy has amassed a wealth of experience, touring extensively, opening for major acts, and performing in diverse venues. He's even had the distinct honor of playing the national anthem at a baseball stadium.
His list of musical influences includes Alice Cooper, Scorpions, Megadeth, Pantera, Avenged Sevenfold, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Gary Moore, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Aerosmith, The Beatles, Van Halen, Skid Row, Guns N’ Roses, The Cure, Tesla, Motley Crue, Richie Sambora, and everywhere in between. These icons have shaped Andy’s approach to music, helping him hone his craft and perform at the highest level.
Andy is excited for his next chapter as a guitar instructor at School of Rock Reno, where he looks forward to sharing his knowledge and helping students develop their own musical skills.
Drum Teacher
Ethan Lane brings a powerful blend of experience and passion to School of Rock Reno! A seasoned drummer with years of touring across the West Coast and Southwest, Ethan's expertise spans a wide range of styles, from the finesse of jazz and marching percussion to the raw energy of live rock and metal.
Regularly performing in intimate clubs and 1,000-capacity rooms, Ethan understands the dynamics of live performance. As a touring musician, he's rocked stages with regional acts like EVERGLADE, A Moments Notice, and Idle Mind.
Ethan's versatility is truly impressive. He effortlessly navigates intricate odd-time grooves and delivers high-energy rock and metal beats with precision and flair. Whether he's laying down complex rhythms or driving a powerful rock anthem, Ethan's energy, adaptability, and professionalism shine through.
At School of Rock Reno, Ethan is excited to share his real-world experience and inspire the next generation of drummers. Get ready to groove and rock with Ethan!
School of Rock is where music and learning come together
For over twenty years, our amazing instructors have transformed hundreds of thousands of students across the world into skilled musicians. Become a musician at School of Rock.