Kenny Martin
Director, General Manager
Kenny Martin, a true maestro of musical versatility, has been making waves in the world of music for decades. His journey into the realm of rock 'n' roll began with a mind-blowing experience in 1978 when he witnessed KISS on TV. That electrifying moment ignited his passion for music, and he set his sights on mastering the guitar.
For Kenny, music isn't just a hobby; it's a lifelong companion that has enabled him to communicate and connect with fellow musicians across generations. His deep-seated love for music has driven him to explore and excel in various instruments, including drums, bass guitar, piano/keyboards, acoustic/electric guitar, and even vocals.
Kenny's musical odyssey has been a journey of self-exploration and continuous improvement. He has delved into the intricacies of music theory, honed his technique, trained his ears to perfection, and mastered the art of playing a diverse repertoire of songs and musical pieces.
Among Kenny's musical heroes, Gene Simmons, the iconic bassist and vocalist of KISS, holds a special place. Kenny draws inspiration from Simmons' larger-than-life stage presence and musical prowess. Additionally, he admires legends like Elvis Presley, Prince, and Dave Grohl for their unparalleled contributions to the world of music.
Kenny's musical journey has been accompanied by the melodies of some classic albums, including KISS's "Alive," Jeff Buckley's "Grace," and Wham!'s "Fantastic." These albums have played a pivotal role in shaping his musical sensibilities.
One of Kenny's all-time favourite songs is "Come Sail Away" by Styx, a timeless classic that continues to resonate with him. Beyond music, Kenny's interests span the realms of science fiction and football. He's a connoisseur of sci-fi wonders and a passionate follower of the beautiful game.
When it comes to his culinary preferences, Kenny's ideal meal is a hearty serving of his mum's chicken schnitzel, adorned with diced tomatoes and creamy mashed potatoes. As for his dream destination, he dreams of heading to London, even if it means embarking on the longest first-class flight.
Kenny's life philosophy is simple yet profound: "Just have a crack - you never know what can happen." He envisions a world where music can be monetized in a more equitable and innovative manner.
If Kenny were a character in "Top Gun," his call sign would undoubtedly be "Gringo," a fitting moniker for a musician who's been rocking through the decades with passion, zeal, and an unwavering love for music.
Julie O'Connor
Music Director
Julie O'Connor's musical journey began at a young age when she found herself belting out tunes with a hairbrush as a makeshift microphone, singing along to Helen Reddy's empowering anthem, "I am Woman." This early fascination with music set the stage for her lifelong love affair with melodies and lyrics.
As a music director at School of Rock, Julie brings her passion for music to the forefront. She firmly believes that music and lyrics serve as powerful tools for expressing emotions. Julie sees music as a universal language that unites humanity, providing joy and emotional solace to all who listen.
When she's not working behind the scenes at School of Rock, Julie is the vocalist and percussionist for the dynamic duo "Soul Tattoo," which covers a wide range of songs. With two decades of musical experience, Julie's commitment to her craft remains unwavering.
Julie's musical journey has been influenced by great artists like Tina Arena, Michael Jackson, Melissa Etheridge, and Billy Joel. She admires the talent and resilience of accomplished female musicians like Tina Arena, Sheryl Crow, and Melissa Etheridge, who have made enduring contributions to the music industry.
Besides her musical pursuits, Julie maintains an active and healthy lifestyle, engaging in activities like yoga, HIIT workouts, and even boxing and combat classes. You might find her sipping on her favourite cocktail, an espresso martini, or indulging in a fireball shot on weekends.
Her culinary preferences lean towards delectable dishes like pork belly with sweet chili jam or succulent lamb shanks. Julie's dream destination is Tromso, Norway, where she hopes to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
In a world where dust is an eternal nemesis, Julie envisions a practical solution—a dust eliminator! And when it comes to winding down and letting loose, she's no stranger to a fiery shot of Fireball. Julie O'Connor is a music-loving, fitness-conscious, and vibrant individual who adds a unique rhythm to the School of Rock community.
Hannah Mettenbrink
Studio Coordinator
Hannah has been surrounded by music since birth, with her parents raising her through the universal language of song. Growing up immersed in various genres, Hannah has always found joy and expression in singing her way through life. To her, music is everything—a guiding force that provides comfort, inspiration, and connection.
As a studio coordinator at School of Rock, Hannah’s mission is to inspire students to develop a deep love for music, just as she has. She believes music is a lifelong companion, offering support and guidance no matter where life takes you.
While Hannah has an incredible ear for matching tunes and vocal styles, she aspires to improve her music-reading skills to broaden her musical abilities. Her inspirations range from Megan Thee Stallion and Cynthia Erivo to Frank Sinatra, reflecting her admiration for vocalists who excel in their craft and push boundaries.
Outside of music, Hannah enjoys gaming, reading YA romance and Australian social commentary, and exploring sociology. Her dream destination is Italy, where she hopes to take in the stunning sights, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Known affectionately as “The Tall One,” Hannah is a vibrant presence at School of Rock Bella Vista, dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of music in everyone she meets.
Grace Zeswitz
Studio Coordinator
Grace is the Studio Coordinator at School of Rock, bringing a warm, welcoming presence that helps students and families feel at home from the moment they walk through the door. Music runs deeply in her family’s history — her great-grandfather, William “Bill” Zeswitz Sr., was a violin maker whose passion for music has carried through generations. Grace studied piano from ages four to twelve, focusing on classical favourites such as Ode to Joy and Für Elise, and although she now jokes that she “can only play records,” her love of music has never faded.
In her role, Grace is dedicated to helping every student find their passion for music and learning. She believes musical education should be fun, engaging, and centred on community — a place where young musicians not only build skills on their instrument, but also learn what it means to play in a band and be part of something meaningful. Guided by an influential music teacher early in life, she values music theory, ear training, technique, and the joy of playing songs as essential building blocks for every student’s journey.
Outside of School of Rock Bella Vista, Grace loves spending time with her cats, exploring museums, trying new restaurants, and wandering through the city. Her favourite artists include Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel, Annie Lennox, and Jimi Hendrix, and she dreams of travelling to the Amalfi Coast to soak in its art, history, beaches, and food — with a side trip to climb Mount Vesuvius. Known affectionately as Lightning Bug, Grace brings creativity, kindness, and a deep appreciation for music to the School of Rock Bella Vista community every day.
Cameron Towell
Keyboard Teacher
Cameron Towell is a piano teacher and keyboard teacher at School of Rock Bella Vista, with a focus on contemporary and jazz piano. He studied classical piano as a young child and still loves beaking down the master composers of that era.
Taking inspiration from artists Billy Joel, Bill Evans, and Stevie Wonder, Cameron plays in a funk band called Soul Craft. His band is often seen around the wedding circuit in Sydney.
Cameron is passionate about teaching his students and can break down difficult concepts into easily digestible pieces. He has enormous patience with younger students and easily turns musical ideas into games.
His favourite song is Elton John’s “Benny and The Jets” and his guilty pleasure song is the Campfire song from Spongebob Squarepants.
Cameron is available to take on new piano and keyboard students at School of Rock Bella Vista.
Liza-Marie Cacnio
Vocal Teacher
Liza-Marie is a singing teacher at School of Rock Bella Vista with a background as a singer-songwriter, arranger, and performer based in Sydney, Australia.
Taking inspiration from artists Tori Kelly, H.E.R, Pink Sweat$, Lianne La Havas, and alike, Liza-Marie writes and performs songs influenced by mixed genres of R&B, Soul, Pop, Christian, and many more.
Not only does she compose songs for herself, but also for church (Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ)) in the Music Department of Oceania. As she continues to find her voice through her songs and develop her skills as an individual artist, she hopes to make herself known in the community and inspire others.
Liza-Marie's go-to song to jam out to is Bittersweet by Lianne La Havas.
Ariq Sulthan
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Guitar Teacher, Drum Teacher
Ariq is a multi-instrumentalist who was inspired to become a musician by watching artists like Jimmy Page, Kevin Parker and Dave Grohl. Learning to become a musician by self-expression took Ariq to complete his Bachelor of Music degree through JMC in Sydney.
Ariq is a keen car enthusiast and lover of football (the English kind) but nothing brings a smile to his face more than the music of Led Zeppelin. Ariq is available for guitar lessons, bass guitar lessons, and drum lessons at School of Rock Bella Vista.
Eleni Kokkinos
Vocal Teacher
Miss Eleni, a versatile musician and singer, calls New South Wales, Australia, her home. Her musical journey began with a deep-rooted love for singing, nurtured by moments in the car, in the shower, and harmonizing with her mom's vinyl records. She expanded her repertoire to include piano, keyboards, bass guitar, and even percussion instruments like tambourines and shakers. This diverse skill set reflects her insatiable passion for music.
As an educator, Miss Eleni's goal is to help her students express themselves with nuance and emotion through music. Music and singing have been her constant companions throughout her life, and she aspires to provide the same enriching experience for her students. Her teaching philosophy centres on conveying messages through music, allowing students to find their own path in this timeless art form.
Miss Eleni's musical journey features a diverse array of projects, from being the backing vocalist in "Th!nk Pink" to leading the original outfit "Sisco Electro." Her dedication to music has led her to perform with award-winning bands and participate in memorable choir experiences, including singing at the Sydney Opera House with 300 voices.
Outside the spotlight, Miss Eleni engages in solo performances at Aged Care Homes, offering comfort and joy to seniors through music. Her interests extend to motorbike rides with friends, hitting the beach, and exploring other countries. With a penchant for double cheeseburgers and a lifelong connection to Elvis's music, her dream destination is Graceland, where the King of Rock 'n' Roll's legacy lives on.
Simone White
Drum Teacher
Simone White is a versatile, eclectic drummer with his eye on the bigger picture. Not content to just lay down a beat, Simone contemplates the significance of everything around him and the role every part plays in creating and expressing music. With a versatile background ranging from Hip-Hop, Funk, Latin, Reggae, Jazz, and Drum and Bass, to Rock, Punk, Metal, and Progressive, Simone has played with George Clinton and recorded and toured with Mark Eitze of the American Music Club. He is an accomplished live and session musician.
Simone was the drummer for The Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy, Michael Franti & Spearhead, and has toured with Nirvana, L7, and The Breeders. Simone is a Drum Teacher at School of Rock Bella Vista in Sydney. Originally from San Francisco in the United States, Simone called Australia home after falling in love with Sydney after playing The Big Day Out Tour. Simone has been teaching drums for 30 plus years and is available for Drum Lessons at School of Rock Bella Vista
Sam Flood
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Vocal Teacher
Sam Flood is a multi-instrumentalist and drum teacher, guitar teacher, bass guitar teacher, keyboard + piano teacher, and vocal Teacher at School of Rock Bella Vista. His musical journey began at five years old when his uncle showed him Bullet in a Bible by Green Day — a moment that sparked his love for guitar, singing, and the thrill of rock performance. From that early introduction, Sam immersed himself in music lessons and self-discovery, developing into a versatile and passionate musician.
As a teacher, Sam wants his students to find an outlet where they can pour their passion, work hard, and feel the rewards firsthand. He believes in creating opportunities for students to collaborate with friends, build confidence, and be part of something they’re truly proud of. His teaching foundation comes from self-exploration, influential mentors, and a deep commitment to music theory, technique, ear training, and learning through songs. Sam’s dream wish — private lessons from all his favourite musicians — reflects the curiosity and enthusiasm he brings into every class.
Sam’s musical tastes span King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and The Mamas and the Papas, with a fascination for artists like Jim Morrison, Freddie Mercury, and Liam Gallagher. Outside of music, he follows current events, enjoys kangaroo steak, and dreams of visiting China to explore a completely different culture. Known as Flash, he brings energy, humour, and creativity to the School of Rock community — and if he could invent anything, it would be a robot that can play instruments, just for fun.
Lorenzo La Cava
Guitar Teacher, Vocal Teacher, Drum Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher
Lorenzo La Cava, widely known as "LLC," is a multi-instrumentalist and producer with a rich background in music education. His journey into music began from a youthful curiosity and blossomed through self-directed learning across various instruments, including drums, guitars, keyboards, and strings. LLC's approach to music is deeply rooted in inspiring creativity and unity, making him a passionate and engaging educator at School of Rock.
With a career that includes producing music in Nashville and touring the East Coast of Australia with his bands, LLC brings a diverse and eclectic experience to his teaching. He is dedicated to helping his students find their own connection with music, emphasizing the joy and communal spirit that performing can bring. His experience in varied musical genres and collaborative projects enriches his lessons, making them dynamic and comprehensive.
Outside the studio, LLC's interests in cooking, gardening, and meditation reflect his well-rounded personality and commitment to a balanced lifestyle. His passion for music and education is driven by the belief that music is a universal language that can enhance personal growth and community bonding. Lorenzo's multifaceted expertise and approachable demeanor make him a favorite among students and parents alike at School of Rock.
Ian Joye
Drum Teacher
Ian Joye's musical journey is a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of passion, curiosity, and a diverse skill set. Starting at the tender age of 8 with the trumpet and transitioning to drums at twelve, Ian found his rhythm in the world of music through his participation in jazz bands and orchestras. His mastery extends to drums, bass guitar, piano, keyboards, and various brass instruments, making him a versatile player in any ensemble.
As an educator at the School of Rock, Ian is driven by the desire to see his students achieve their full potential. He emphasizes the importance of understanding music theory, refining technique, and ear training, ensuring his students not only play music but feel it deeply. Ian’s teaching is inspired by his own experiences and the influential mentors he's encountered, aiming to pass on the same motivation and enjoyment he feels every time he performs.
Ian's musical career is highlighted by his roles in various bands, from managing and playing bass for Sweet Sorrows to rocking out in the grunge band Good Behaviour and creating tunes with his brother in Skate Workers. His musical influences are as varied as his interests, drawing inspiration from legends like Dave Grohl, David Gilmour, and Neil Peart, with favorite albums including Pink Floyd's Dark Side of The Moon, Dream Theater's Images and Words, and Rush's Moving Pictures.
Outside the world of music, Ian is an avid learner, especially interested in modern world history and documentaries about WW1 and WW2. He is also a keen hiker, exploring long, mountainous trails that challenge the body and soothe the soul. With a yearning for discovery, Ian dreams of one day visiting Antarctica to experience its untouched natural beauty and profound solitude.
Ian’s vision for his students and his music is to create a space where learning is continuous and every note played is a step towards mastering the art of music.
Harry Martin
Drum Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher
Harry Martin is a passionate drum teacher and keyboard + piano teacher at School of Rock Bella Vista, bringing creativity and musicianship to every lesson. He first fell in love with music through the idea of creating sound that could influence people’s emotions, and that spark quickly evolved into a lifelong passion. As the drummer for The Figs, Harry treasures the memory of their first gig at The Loft on Broadway — a milestone that cemented his drive to perform and grow as an artist.
Harry’s musical development has been shaped by self-exploration and the guidance of an influential music teacher. He focuses on music theory, ear training, refining technique, and expressive performance across both drums and keyboards. His songwriting is his proudest creative skill, influenced by artists like Billy Joel, Paul McCartney, and Liam Gallagher. His favourite albums like The Stranger, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, and The Bends continue to inspire his style and teaching approach.
Outside of teaching and performing, Harry enjoys soccer, running, padel, tennis, travelling, films, stories, and spending time at the beach or in big cities. He loves all things Italian food — pizza, pasta, breads, and gelato — and dreams of New York or London for their vibrant music scenes and opportunities. Known affectionately as H-Bomb, Harry brings enthusiasm, warmth, and a down-to-earth approach that helps students feel confident, supported, and excited to learn.
Mitch Knott
Drum Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Mitchell “Mitch” Knott is a versatile drum teacher, guitar teacher, and bass guitar teacher at School of Rock Bella Vista, known for his energetic style and passion for helping students discover their musical voice. He grew up surrounded by instruments, from ukuleles to old acoustic guitars, with 80s rock always playing around the house thanks to his dad. When he discovered legendary guitarists like Angus Young and Kirk Hammett, his inspiration to play truly took off, shaping the musician he is today.
Mitch is the lead guitarist and co-songwriter for his band Under The Knife, which he started two years ago and continues to grow. With their debut album set for release in January 2026, some of his favourite memories include performing at a packed youth event at The Red Rattler on a scorching day, where the energy in the room matched the heat. His teaching approach has been shaped by self-exploration, guidance from influential teachers, countless hours on YouTube, and a deep commitment to music theory, technique, ear training, and expressive performance.
As a teacher, Mitch wants his students to experience the thrill of playing for an audience that genuinely appreciates them. He believes creating an emotional response through music is a priceless moment for any musician, and his goal is to give students the tools to write their own songs, share them with others, and use music as a meaningful outlet. Inspired by artists like Angus Young, Victor Wooten, Jimi Hendrix, and Marty Friedman, Mitch brings a broad palette of influences into every lesson. When he’s not teaching or performing, you’ll find him supporting the Wests Tigers, playing tennis, binging TV shows, or enjoying home-cooked curry sausages. He dreams of visiting Japan — mostly to hunt for cheap left-handed guitars — and continues to bring enthusiasm, humour, and creativity to the School of Rock Bella Vista community.
Alex “Binho” Manenti
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Drum Teacher
Alex “Binho” Manenti is a multi-instrumentalist drum teacher, guitar teacher, bass guitar teacher, and keyboard + piano teacher at School of Rock Bella Vista. Growing up in a deeply musical household, Binho was surrounded by artists like Led Zeppelin, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, James Brown, and Larry Graham. One of his earliest memories — hearing Kashmir at full volume — sparked a burst of excitement that sent him running around the house playing air drums and air guitar. That moment lit a lifelong love of music, leading his dad to enrol him in piano lessons at age twelve. Since then, his connection to music has never wavered.
As both an educator and an artist, Binho believes music is built on self-confidence, discipline, and collective spirit. His goal as a teacher is to help students express themselves through music, understand the theory behind it (from the physics to the math), and develop as individuals and bandmates. He brings a teaching style rooted in self-exploration, mentorship, and professional experience — from scoring original music for TV series and advertisements to performing as a composer, producer, and keyboard player in his Sydney-based rock band, The Replays. He carries with him standout moments such as his 2021 nomination for Best Music Producer for TV Shows in Brazil, and performing Born to Be Wild in front of 12,000 people as a teenager.
Beyond teaching, Binho draws inspiration from musical icons like Stevie Wonder, Sting, and Geddy Lee, and loves albums such as Physical Graffiti, Van Halen’s 5150, and Extreme’s Pornograffiti. When he’s not making music, he enjoys travelling, exploring nature, meeting new friends, and eating traditional Brazilian feijoada. His dream destination is always home — to Brazil — to hug his mum and brother. Known affectionately as RiffRider, Binho brings warmth, humour, expertise, and global musical experience to the School of Rock Bella Vista community, inspiring students to find confidence, joy, and freedom in every note they play.