Our Experienced Music Teachers
All of School of Rock Fremont’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.
Ryan Machamer
Owner, General Manager
Ryan Machamer is the owner and General Manager of School of Rock Fremont. A lifelong drummer and music lover, Ryan’s earliest memories of rhythm come from unexpected places—like car blinkers and bumpy roads in the family’s Vista Cruiser. Growing up, he didn’t find his stride in sports or academics, but behind a drum kit, something clicked. Drumming became his identity—his pocket of confidence—and the one place where he knew, without a doubt, he could hold his own.
As a young performer, Ryan was always in motion: dancing with his sisters, playing in junior high and high school jazz and marching bands, and later joining local projects as both a band member and hired gun. One of his most cherished musical chapters includes playing in the Jeff Michaels Band (Even Elroy).
Ryan and his wife Lexus were inspired to open School of Rock Fremont after seeing the powerful impact music had on their own two sons. Starting a business had long been a shared dream, and School of Rock offered the perfect harmony of purpose and passion. With Lexus’s organizational talent and their shared experience as parents and musicians, the school is a true family-driven mission.
Though Ryan’s background is in software sales, his role as General Manager feels like the right stage. “This is totally new for me,” he says, “but I have an unbelievable team leading our school and the full support of the School of Rock system. That gives me complete confidence in what our team can achieve.”
Ryan believes what makes School of Rock Fremont unique is rooted in a simple truth: music gives back exactly what you put into it. “There’s no mystery and no barrier—it doesn’t care who you are, what you look like, or if you're short. Practice your instrument, and you will get better. Period.”
He’s passionate about building a culture that produces not just skilled musicians, but complete ones—students who learn the life lessons that come naturally from being in a band: teamwork, creative disagreements, thinking on your feet, adjusting on the fly, reading the room. “Some kids will come here and find a passion that saves their life. Others will just have the best time learning to play with friends. We welcome all of it—and we have a program for everyone.”
His hope is that students and families leave School of Rock Fremont feeling like musicians—no matter where life takes them. “Even if they don’t stick with it forever, they’ll carry the lessons from their time here with them. And maybe even pass it on to their own kids someday.”
Ryan’s favorite band of all time? “As hard as it is to narrow it down… a drummer growing up in the ’80s? Of course, Rush.”
His first concert was a big one—Monsters of Rock at Candlestick Park, with Van Halen headlining and Metallica opening.
And if he could jam with anyone, living or dead? “My mom. She wasn’t a great musician, but she would’ve gotten a kick out of what we’re building here. There’s definitely some of her imprint on this school and its culture.”
Lexus Nguyen
Co-Owner
Lexus didn’t set out to open a music school — she set out to raise confident, happy kids. A mother of four, Lexus understands firsthand the hopes, doubts, and daily challenges that come with parenting. Like many parents, she wanted to give her children something that would help them find their voice, build self-confidence, and connect with others in a meaningful way. For her family, that “something” turned out to be music.
Two of her children went through the School of Rock program, and the transformation was undeniable. Lexus watched as her kids stepped out of their shells, found their rhythm (literally and figuratively), and grew into themselves. It was a turning point — not just for them, but for her. That experience lit a fire in her to bring that same growth and joy to other families.
Before School of Rock, Lexus spent over 25 years in the kitchen and bath design world. Her career began at the San Jose Mercury News as an advertising rep, where she helped small businesses grow. One of those clients invited her into his own company, and from there she built a long, successful career designing homes and now works as an estimator with Diablo Valley Cabinetry’s multi-unit team.
Now, in this next chapter of life, Lexus and her husband, Ryan wanted to create something that mattered — a place where kids feel seen, supported, and celebrated. School of Rock Fremont isn’t just a business. It’s a passion project built from a parent’s heart — a space where families come together, kids can be themselves, and music becomes a powerful tool for growth.
And the best part? “I’ve always wanted to start a business,” Lexus laughs, “but one where I get to work with my family? Even better. They have no choice but to show up and be with me — and honestly, that’s a dream come true.
Jensen Machamer
Student Ambassador
Jensen Machamer has been surrounded by music literally since before he was born. His mom was eight months pregnant when she took him to his older brother’s first School of Rock performance — and the next day, she went into early labor. From the start, Jensen was born into rhythm, energy, and a love for the stage.
By age six, he was performing in front of hundreds, already comfortable under the lights. Today, as Student Ambassador for School of Rock Fremont, Jensen brings that same energy and leadership to younger students and new families—welcoming them, cheering them on, and leading by example.
While he’s not shy on talent, it’s his bold self-expression and fearless individuality that truly stand out. Whether it’s a show night or just a Tuesday, Jensen arrives dressed to the nines and fully in character. He doesn’t just play the part—he becomes it.
Outside of music, he’s explored acting, modeling, and theater, with performances in short films like Ducks and with The Theater Factory. Jensen continues to study music at School of Rock Fremont, reminding everyone around him that being yourself is the most powerful performance of all.
Kobe Tabulinar
Music Director
Kobe is a Music Director with a deep love for groove, collaboration, and lifelong learning. With a foundation in jazz, classical, and rock, Kobe draws from a wide range of musical styles—but funk is where his soul truly lives.
His journey began as a student in the School of Rock program, where he honed his skills and discovered the power of playing with others. That experience later came full circle when he returned as a teacher, guiding the next generation of young musicians and continuing to grow through teaching.
With a special love for the bass and rhythm section, Kobe approaches music with curiosity, humility, and a strong sense of feel. Whether arranging sets, leading rehearsals, or playing live, he focuses on creating music that connects and grooves. For Kobe, music isn’t just a craft—it’s a conversation, and he’s always excited to keep learning, listening, and playing at School of Rock Fremont.
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.