John
Music Director
John grew up in a musical family and began playing seriously when he was 13. He has played with various projects around the region. From 2012 to 2021, he played drums in prog-funk-punk trio Hectorina, and has played guitar and vocals in experimental psych-pop band Dinner Rabbits since 2010. He has also released two solo albums, a collaborative album with Temperance League's Bruce Hazel in 2024, and is regularly hired for session work in recording studios on various instruments.
John's influences range from psychedelia, folk, and punk to soul, glam rock, and new wave. He loves fostering an appreciation of all styles of music in his students and helping them find their creative voice so they can reach their full musical potential. He has been a teacher at School of Rock Charlotte since 2014 and became Music Director in 2019.
Zoe
Studio Coordinator
Zoe is a lifelong music enthusiast. Some of her favorite bands are Judas Priest, Death Grips, and The Garden. At School of Rock Charlotte, Zoe rocks the front desk and all operations on show days. She has a background in fashion and art and encourages all of our students to be more authentic versions of themselves. FLY YOUR FREAK FLAG!
Sydney
Vocal Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Studio Coordinator
Sydney grew up in a family of artists in Albany, New York, and moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, in 2008. Since then, she has been performing in plays and in music venues, including with Carolina Voices. She is currently attending the University of North Carolina at Charlotte for a degree in English and a minor in journalism, but loves working in the live show industry.
When she’s not scrolling aimlessly on Pinterest, Sydney is writing her own songs and more than likely watching a musical. Her favorite artists include Marianas Trench, Childish Gambino, and FeFe Dobson.
Nathan
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Nathan has always loved music and fell in love with performing in high school. He teaches students that music is a great way to express yourself and should be fun. Since graduating with a music degree, Nathan has been teaching guitar, bass, keyboard, and drums and directing shows.
Dennis
Guitar Teacher, Drum Teacher
Dennis first started playing drums at age 10, drawn to the instrument by the sounds of classic rock drummers John Bonham, Ringo Starr, Keith Moon, Nick Mason and the countless studio drummers that sweetened the sound of Steely Dan. A primarily self-taught multi-instrumentalist, with a splash of theory and notation imparted on him from time spent in the percussion sections of wind ensembles during high school, Dennis primarily writes and performs music as an element of his live performance art, which also includes poetry, acting, and comedy.
His passion for music has provided him opportunities to work with other musicians in jam sessions, open mics, bands, and as a live music audio engineer and comedy/music show producer. He tries to write a new song every week, and as a teacher, emphasizes the importance of body mechanics and feel. His mission as a performer is continually clarifying the connection between what motivates an artist to perform and why audiences are fascinated by art.
Ryan
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Drum Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Vocal Teacher
Ryan's musical journey began at the age of eight when he first discovered the piano. Throughout his early teens, he expanded his repertoire, learning several other instruments. Ryan took the stage at just 14 years old, performing live and captivating audiences with his music. In high school, Ryan's passion for music led him to participate in numerous chamber choirs and a cappella groups, showcasing his versatility as a vocalist. He also dedicated three years of his life to the Appalachian State jazz vocal ensemble, where he was able to explore his love for jazz music.
Among his musical pursuits, Ryan has found composition to be one of his favorite aspects of music, allowing him to express his creativity and innovation. With over a decade of experience, he has become a seasoned performer, lending his skills to various local acts in the vibrant music scene of Charlotte, including as a teacher at School of Rock Charlotte.
Taylor
Vocal Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Drum Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Taylor grew up in Chicago, Illinois. He attended School of Rock for three years as a teen, being involved in the House Band program as well as getting the opportunity to audition for the School of Rock AllStars program. He’s currently involved in the local Charlotte alternative band, I Hate Dave, in which he plays bass, does backing vocals, and, on occasion, plays drums. He frequently performs alongside other bands and artists from many different cities along the East Coast.
His musical influences come from a variety of different genres, such as nu metal, hair metal, EDM, and even choral arrangements. Taylor started working at School of Rock in September of 2021 and, throughout the years, has taught almost every program the school has to offer, including Little Wing, Rookies, Rock 101, Performance, and House Band.
Patrick
Drum Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher
Patrick fell in love with performing in the middle school band. Whether it be marching band or rock bands, he has loved every second he's spent playing music. He teaches students that music is the best form of self-expression and connection. Patrick wants to ignite their passion and build their confidence. He has been using his degree in music teaching students bass, keys, drums, directing shows and running summer camps.
Ariel
Vocals Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher
Ariel has been a professional singer for over a decade and holds a degree in musical theatre and outdoor leadership. She is a passionately excited entertainer and teacher who has been performing since she could talk.
In her lessons at School of Rock Charlotte, she aims to inspire students to grow and unlock their ultimate musical potential while expressing themselves through music that they love. Are you ready to rock?!
Jameel
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher
Jameel is a seasoned music instructor with a deep-rooted passion for music. His journey began at the age of 13 when he first picked up a guitar, and from that moment, his life became a beautiful symphony of melodies.
Jameel's dedication to music extends to his church, where he lends his talents to create harmonious worship experiences. His time at Benedict College saw him as a vital part of the gospel choir, where his skills blossomed. With years of experience, Jameel firmly believes that staying calm and composed is one of the most crucial aspects of mastering any musical instrument.
Melanie
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Vocal Teacher
Melanie exemplifies the significance of dedication and passion in music. Her musical journey commenced at the young age of 6, inspired by the work of Taylor Swift. Her educational journey culminated in her 2022 graduation from Queens University with a degree in music performance.
Melanie firmly believes that patience and consistency are fundamental when starting to learn a new musical instrument, values she actively imparts to her students.