Alex Cook
Music Director, Bass Guitar Teacher
Alex is the Music Director and a bass guitar teacher at School of Rock Mason. He started in 2014 as a bass guitar teacher, and added roles such as Show Director and Rock 101 Director before joining the administrative staff as Music Director. Alex graduated from Northern Kentucky University in 2012 with a BA in Music and a Minor in Electronic Media & Broadcasting. During his time there, he performed in the Jazz Ensemble, various smaller Jazz Combos, R&B Band, Latin Jazz Ensemble, Philharmonic Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Saxophone Quartet, and Concert Band. Alex taught guitar, bass guitar, saxophone, and banjo lessons at Western Hills Music from 2011 to 2020.
Alex has been a member of various original bands over the years, including Calumet, Ever The True, Majestic Man, and Cookin' Hearts. He has also been a regular or rotating member of many other bands, such as The Kelsey Mira Band, Mixtape, and Owls of Ohio. Additionally, he has done extensive freelance work with a number of wedding bands, tribute bands, and singer-songwriters. Alex works as a session musician, recording bass, banjo, and vocals for various projects.
Alex's favorite part of working at School of Rock Mason is sharing his passion for music and teaching bass lessons to his students on a weekly basis and watching them develop into accomplished musicians and performers. He also enjoys working with Rock 101 students and has directed almost 30 Youth Performance Program shows. Alex enjoys spending his free time with his wife and two children, reading, hiking, going to concerts, and gaming with friends.
Tom Shriver
Drum Teacher, Rock 101 Director, Show Director
Tom Shriver is a teacher, Show Director, Rock 101 Director, and Camp Director at School of Rock Mason, which he joined in 2015. Tom began his studies of drums and classical percussion in 1977, eventually earning a Master of Music in Applied Percussion from Ohio University (1990). He went on to teach percussion and serve as Assistant Band Director at West Virginia State College from 1990 to 1995. He then joined the United States Air Force Bands, and spent 1995–2015 leading rock bands and concert ensembles in Japan and Germany before eventually settling in Ohio with his family.
Tom enjoys arranging for rock bands and horns, is a lifelong King Crimson fan, and cheers for the Columbus Crew. He is known for his vibrant fashion sense, his voluminous laugh, and his connection to his students. He has a stated goal of directing at least 100 shows during his tenure at School of Rock Mason. He is well on his way to that goal!
Angelina Rose
Studio Coordinator
Angelina Rose has been a driving force behind the culture and growth of the school since May 2023, where she serves as Studio Coordinator and has become a community builder. She is known for her dedication, leadership, and commitment to creating a strong, supportive environment.
At her core, Angelina is fueled by purpose. She is passionate about creating a space where every individual who walks through the doors feels valued, inspired, and empowered to pursue their passion. She especially values the staff, students, and families that make up the school, and it’s that sense of community that allows her to thrive in her role.
With over 20 years of experience as a vocalist, Angelina brings authenticity and a deep understanding of performance into her work each day. She recently graduated from University of Cincinnati with a bachelor’s degree in Digital Media. This background allows her to blend creative vision with organization to support both the student experience and the school’s presence.
To'Nia Ruby
Vocal Teacher, Show Director
To’Nia’s joined the staff of School of Rock Mason in 2016 as a vocal teacher. She has also taken on the role of Show Director. She brings extensive experience in vocal instruction and direction, including: Artistic Director, The Shepherd's Heart C.F.M (2005-2019); Choir Director, YMCA music program (2009-2011); Vocal Director, Cincinnati Christian University (2016-2019); and Summer Music Program Instructor, Pleasant Ridge Montessori (2021-2023). To’Nia attended Kentucky State University and then Wilberforce University where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Vocal Performance (2007). She has studied under various instructors with an emphasis on gospel, R&B, classical, and musical theatre training.
To'Nia has a dynamic performance career spanning classical, theatrical, and contemporary music. Some of her credits include Ain’t Mis’behavin, Ragtime, The Katrina Project, and I’ve Changed. She has shared the stage with the likes of Mint Condition, Shirley Murdock, Howard Hewitt, Tweet, and Silk, and headlined events at Paul Brown Stadium, Washington Park, and the Fountain Square Jazz Festival. To’Nia has been recognized as a finalist in the Irene Ryan Theatre Competition and is a recipient of the Kennedy Arts Foundation Award for Best Theatrical Performance.
To'Nia loves the family-friendly, safe, and intentional environment at School of Rock Mason. She appreciates the opportunity to teach eager students and adults, watching entire families get involved in the programs, and the lasting relationships that are formed. She highlights the commitment to pushing clients to improve their skills, resulting in challenging, fun, and consistently amazing shows. "I LOVE SOR MASON!!!" To'Nia is a wife and mother of three, born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. She is gospel and R&B raised, classical and musical theatre trained. Her hobbies include crossfitting, dancing, cooking (her passion), traveling, and collecting coins. She also serves as a parent mentor for families who have special needs loved ones.
Cameron Smith
Vocal Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Show Director, Rock 101 Show Director
Cameron joined the School of Rock Mason team in 2023, bringing with him a diverse background in performance and education. He is a versatile teacher, teaching bass, guitar, keyboard + piano, and vocals. Cameron's teaching experience began with private guitar lessons in 2014. Cameron graduated with honors from the Young Americans College of the Performing Arts in 2018, where he taught group and individual classes on voice and dance through 2020. Prior to joining School of Rock Mason, he was a teacher at a Chicagoland School of Rock.
As a performer, Cameron has been a multi-instrumentalist for various groups, including Running for Congress (bass guitar), Unrivaled (lead guitar, background vocals), which opened for Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, and Owls of Ohio (guitar, keyboard, vocals). He is also an active composer. His industry experience includes work as a Master Carpenter and Sound Technician, and as a Sound and Lighting Tech for The Young Americans on their tour in Germany.
Cameron finds immense joy in meeting new students and watching them "fall in love with rock." He cites directing Rock 101 as a favorite experience due to the significant growth and personal development he witnesses in new students. Cameron is a seasoned traveler, having toured nationally and internationally in 11 countries, including an extensive time spent in Japan. Beyond playing guitar, he enjoys building and modifying musical equipment, having constructed two guitars from scratch. He is currently interested in Greek philosophy, and his favorite films include classics like The Thing, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and North by Northwest. He also enjoys low-budget horror and the Legend of Zelda series.
Rick Bishop
Guitar Teacher
Rick Bishop began working at School of Rock Mason in 2023 as a guitar teacher, and has since added the roles of Show Director and Rock 101 Director. He primarily teaches the guitar, but he is also experienced in drumline, trumpet/general brass/ and violin/viola. Rick has cultivated his teaching skills through various teaching roles prior to School of Rock Mason. He graduated from Mid Michigan College with a focus on mathematics and science, but has decided to pursue his passion for music full time.
Rick has participated in several performance and recording projects throughout his career, notably as fill-in drummer for Expand Your Horizons, drummer and co-songwriter for Suits and Daggers, and guitarist and songwriter for What’s Left of Us. He releases his solo projects under the name Music Mage and works as a session musician under the handle RickyRageTheMusicMage. He produces his own music and possesses general knowledge of recording, mixing, mastering, and live sound.
Rick's favorite aspect of working at School of Rock Mason is the opportunity to share his love for music every day and witness student growth. He views music as a language and values seeing students transform it from a discipline into a true art, an expressive language. His favorite program is the Student Songwriting Program, which he believes captures the essence of musical expression. Rick is a self described ‘endearing type of nerd’ whose interests while not rocking out include gaming, anime, and his two awesome cats.
Jim Woodie
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Show Director
Jim Woodie has been with School of Rock Mason since 2016. He has been a dedicated guitar and bass guitar teacher since 1996, with prior experience at local music stores including Buddy Rogers and Moeller Music. A veteran of the US Army with a degree in Computer Science, Jim credits the universally acclaimed "School of Hard Knocks" as his most significant educational experience. Jim has been playing music on several instruments since age four, including keyboard + piano and drums.
Jim's performing career began in 1976 with high school bands, progressing through informal Army bands, original acts, and eventually profitable cover bands. He estimates his total gig count to be approximately 3,500. Some of Jim’s career highlights include: performing as the guitarist in the touring Broadway production of Jesus Christ Superstar in California (1983); having the opportunity to play live with Eddie Money, Jimmy Buffett, and Mickey Thomas (Starship); sharing the bill with artists such as Blue Oyster Cult, Joan Jett, Y&T, Grand Funk Railroad, LIT; and performing at the 1983 Monterey Jazz Festival. Jim has extensive experience in the music industry, having worked as a recording engineer, writer, and producer, with three separate published works.
Jim loves School of Rock Mason for its profound contribution to expanding music opportunities within the community, noting that the effect the music presented has on the citizens of the area is immeasurable. He is proud to have mentored several students who achieved School of Rock All-Star status, with two former students currently working as session players in Nashville. Jim has been fortunate to live an incredible life, blessed with unique opportunities and experiences that feel both unbelievable and surreal. His life highlights include having an original song on the radio, a cover song on the radio which was later used as a local radio station promo, and being interviewed on local TV and radio programs. He has also appeared as an extra in a TV show and a major motion picture (A Strange Brand of Happy).
Andrew Holbrook
Drum Teacher, Show Director
Andrew Holbrook began teaching drums at School of Rock Mason in 2022. Since that time, he has grown in his roles to include Show Director, Rock 101 Director, and House Band Director. Prior to joining the staff, Andrew was a student at School of Rock Mason where he participated in nine performance seasons and was a member of the House Band for two years.
Andrew's teaching methods are rooted strongly in the song-first approach and focus on allowing each student to unlock their own sense of creativity and artistry. He is a founding member of local original groups Owls of Ohio and June Bug and can be found performing regularly in Cincinnati’s local music scene.
Andrew's favorite aspect of working at School of Rock Mason is his role as a Show Director. He particularly enjoyed directing the Police and Neo Soul shows. Some of his personal favorite bands and biggest influences include The Beatles, The Police, Radiohead, and The Strokes.
Mason Adams
Guitar Teacher, Show Director, Rock 101 Director
Mason Adams joined School of Rock Mason in 2021 as a guitar teacher, and has since added roles of Show Director and Rock 101 Director. He previously spent several years providing private lessons and eventually transitioned to exclusively work full-time with School of Rock Mason, due to his appreciation and passion for the program's emphasis on performance and song-first approach.
Mason received guitar instruction from Jeremy Singer at the now-closed Maineville Music Academy during his junior high years, an experience he credits with laying a strong foundation for his playing. Mason is currently the lead guitarist for the band Stephanie's Closet, an Alt/Indie Rock group. They are actively working on their debut EP and currently have a single available on Spotify. He also performs with Owls of Ohio alongside fellow School of Rock staff members Stephen Kuffner, Cameron Smith, and Andrew Holbrook. Mason has experience hosting several open-mic nights, including at Cincinnati’s MOTR Pub.
Mason's favorite aspect of working at School of Rock Mason is witnessing the students' growth and journey with their instruments. He especially enjoys seeing them gain confidence and achieve something deeply personal and special through music. Mason is an avid cook.
Lynn Beatty
Drum Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Guitar Teacher
Lynn Beatty has been an integral part of the School of Rock Mason team since 2013. Serving primarily as a drum teacher, Lynn also teaches guitar and bass guitar. Lynn has extensive experience working with the Youth Performance and Adult Performance Programs as a Show Director. Beyond the instruments he teaches at School of Rock Mason, Lynn has studied and performed on mandolin, banjo, keyboard + piano, harmonica, and ukulele. His teaching experience prior to School of Rock includes giving private guitar lessons and working band camps over the years as a Marching Band Drumline instructor.
During his High School Years, Lynn played in McClain High School concert band, marching band, and show choir; he received the John Philip Sousa Award in 1999. He then went on to The Ohio University Marching 110 and Ohio University Concert Band where he was the 2001 recipient of the Lawler Award. Some of Lynn’s performance credits include The Uptown-Funk Allstars (Athens, Ohio 2000/2001), Bourbon County (Hollywood, California 2006/08), Larry Bagby (2009), Nicholas & The Pessimistics (2010), Gran Bel Fisher (2011), My Girl Friday (2014), Zack Attack (2015), Pandora Effect (2016), and My Sister Sarah (2019 to present). While on tour with Larry Bagby in 2009, Lynn had the unique honor of sitting in on bass guitar with W.S. ‘Fluke’ Holland, who was Johnny Cash's drummer. Lynn is a proficient instrument tech who handles many of the in-house instrument service needs at the school.
What Lynn loves most about School of Rock Mason is connecting with all his students and being part of something so many people look forward to in their lives. Van Halen is his favorite band. His hobbies include riding his bicycle, drawing, painting, and making jewelry out of old cymbals. He enjoys Marvel and DC movies, Star Wars, and Wes Anderson films such as The Life Aquatic: With Steve Zissou and The Fantastic Mr. Fox.
Craig Wilson
Guitar Teacher
Craig Wilson has been a guitar teacher at School of Rock Mason since 2013, and his extensive experience as a music teacher goes back to the 1990s. During that time, he worked as a guitar instructor at Willis Music, Ray Lucky Studio, and Buddy Rogers Music, as well as a private instructor. His cover band - My Sister Sarah - has been a premiere live performance act in the region for the better part of a decade. Craig has been writing music throughout his life and has participated in numerous original bands; he is currently working on a couple of original music projects.
Craig finds great fulfillment in his work at School of Rock Mason, particularly enjoying the opportunity to teach the instrument to people who are eager to learn. His favorite guitarist of all time is Stevie Ray Vaughn, and although he excels across many styles of guitar, shredding the funky blues is his sweet-spot. Craig is a film enthusiast and a devoted animal lover, often engaging in fostering animals. His personal interests and hobbies include mountain biking, working out, and maintaining a vegan lifestyle.
Stephen Kuffner
General Manager
Stephen Kuffner is General Manager of the School of Rock Mason. His journey at the school began in 2017 as a guitar teacher. Since that time, he has taken on the roles of Show Director, Rock 101 Director, House Band Director, and Co-Music Director before eventually taking the role of General Manager in 2023. He values working with a staff of incredible musicians and professionals and is grateful for the opportunity to help young musicians discover their talents.
Stephen is a guitarist, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist performer from Cincinnati, OH. He is a former member of 500 Miles to Memphis, Krystal Peterson and the Queen City Band, Calumet; he currently is a founding member of Owls of Ohio, Stephen has extensive experience as a touring, writing, and recording original performing artist. He is a graduate of Xavier University, where he received the Archbishop McNichols award for excellence in Philosophy. After moving many times throughout his childhood, Stephen has made Cincinnati his adopted home town thanks to his lifelong passion for and participation in the local original music scene.
Stephen is a big fan of science fiction and fantasy and will gladly talk your ear off about Lord of the Rings and Star Trek as much as the Beatles or the blues. When he’s not rocking out on stage you can find him out on the hiking trail, or on the tennis court. Check out his latest project, Owls of Ohio on Bandcamp or Instagram, or at an upcoming local show.
Roxie Hennessey
Guitar Teacher. Show Director
Roxie Hennessey began working at School of Rock Mason in 2019 as a Show Director. She returned to the school as a Show Director and Guitar Instructor in 2026. Roxie is a multi-instrumentalist; she has performed on guitar, bass guitar, vocals, drums, keyboard + piano, and harmonica. She has an extensive history in performance, writing, and recording, primarily in the Cincinnati and Columbus music scenes. Current active projects include: Poor Little Critters, an Americana garage rock band; Loud Petunias, an all-women gothic garage punk band; and The Goldies, a four-piece all-women British-inspired band (poppy, vintage garage rock n roll revival). Some of Roxie’s previous credits include The Jellyhearts, Glass Winged Sharpshooters, Pearl De Vere / The Dolly Daredevils, Isabelle Helle & The Hells Bells, and Matt Sullivan Band.
Roxie holds a Bachelor's degree in English with a specialization in Education from The Ohio State University and also attended the University of Cincinnati. Her varied teaching background spans over a decade. In addition to her time at School of Rock Mason, Roxie has worked as a youth literacy advocate at WordPlay Cincy, been a private in-home instructor, and instructed bass at the Girls Rock Cinci Summer Camp. In addition to her performance and teaching roles, Roxie has experience in booking and promotion for her personal bands. Her diverse professional background also includes work in catering, paralegal services, nonprofit executive and founder roles, data analysis, and community advocacy.
Roxie finds joy in seeing students realize their potential as artists and leaders. She cherishes the moments when students realize that they are able to embody the music that inspired them to play; when they recognize their own potential as artists, and as leaders, supporting each other to create performances. She values the community pride and the look of joy on parents' faces during performances.
Roxie grew up in the West Chester/Mason area and now resides in the Northside arts neighborhood. Her musical tastes are broad, ranging from early rock and roll, Delta blues, and vintage folk/bluegrass to loud rock and roll like Iggy Pop and Nine Inch Nails, and influential female artists like Sister Rosetta, Nina Simone, Joni Mitchell, and Alice Bagg. In the contemporary scene, she draws inspiration from acts like Shannon and the Clams, Brittany Howard, and local Cincinnati bands such as Lung, Electric Citizen, and Freedom Nicole Moore. Her hobbies include doodling and writing songs and poems. She is currently working on starting a zine with one of her bands. Music has been a constant connector in her life, balancing her professional careers and deepening her sense of community.
Lindsay Orr
Vocal Teacher
Lindsay Orr joined School of Rock Mason as a vocal teacher in 2024, bringing a wealth of classical training and industry experience to the team. Lindsay holds a BA in Music Business from Syracuse University (2001). His extensive musical foundation includes over 25 years of classical vocal study. He brings significant experience as an artist developer, A&R specialist, and vocal coach/arranger. This work involved roles with several of Universal Music’s boutique labels and various management companies in the tri-state region, as well as coaching and arranging for top urban R&B and gospel artists in Ohio.
Lindsay is the owner-operator of The Krysalis-Consulting -Development-Event, an Artist Development firm based in Cincinnati, Ohio. An accomplished performer, Lindsay has toured with national recording artists Jeremiah Abiah and Estee. He has shared the stage with numerous notable musicians, including Shirley Murdock, Byron Cage, Pastor Rodney Posey and Praise, Jonathan Dunn, Virtue, Tonex, Tarsha’ McMillan, Lisa McClendon, Deborah Killings, Anthony Hamilton and Percy Bady, Kiara "Kiki" Sheard, and Karen Clark-Sheard.
Lindsay deeply enjoys working with his students, finding joy in witnessing their vocal achievements and "Ah ha" moments. His favorite shows so far have been The Latin Show and The Fleetwood Mac Show. Lindsay is passionate about all types of music. His all-time favorite artist is Janet Jackson.
Elijah Staley
Drum Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Show Director
Elijah Staley joined the School of Rock Mason team in 2024 as a camp counselor. He quickly went on to add roles as an instructor for Bass and Drums and as a Show Director. Elijah is actively expanding his musical knowledge through his current pursuit of a degree in Vocal Music Education at Northern Kentucky University.
Prior to his current role as a teacher, Elijah was an accomplished student at School of Rock Mason. During his time as a student, he performed in 20 shows as a bassist, drummer, and/or vocalist and was an accomplished member of the House Band. Elijah is driven by a constant desire to learn new things and enjoys studying any type of music, regardless of the genre. His personal listening habits lean towards progressive rock/metal. Elijah says he is always excited to learn something new, and he works to instill that passion for learning in all of his students.
Evan Kavanaugh
Bass Guitar Teacher
Evan Kavanaugh joined School of Rock Mason as a bass guitar teacher in 2022. While focusing primarily on bass instruction, Evan is also proficient in classical percussion and drumset, which he has studied and played since 2008. Evan is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music (CCM), where he majored in Commercial Music Production, completing his studies in 2022.
Evan brings diverse teaching experience to School of Rock, including roles at Regen Bond Hill (2025), St. Joseph Catholic School (2022), Band in a Bus (2022), and Camp Ernst (2019). His performance background includes participating in the band Aviation.
A fun fact about Evan is that he is a Professional Parkour athlete and has participated in several national parkour competitions.
Jim Questa
Keyboard + Piano Teacher
Jim Questa joined School of Rock Mason in 2013 as a Piano/Keys instructor. He has been dedicated to music education for decades, beginning as a Drum Instructor at Amelia High School in 1983-1984 and maintaining a continuous practice of teaching privately from 1982 to the present. Jim's formal education includes studying under Tom Brislin, a highly respected keyboardist and musical director. Mr. Brislin's extensive performance credits include working with Meatloaf, Debra Harry, Dennis DeYoung, Yes, and Kansas.
Jim has a remarkable performance history, starting as a professional theater organ player from the ages of 6 to 15. During this time, he appeared on various television shows, at trade shows, and mall openings, and was a Showtime guest on the New Mickey Mouse Club at age 12. His band experience spans several decades and genres, including Mara, an original and cover music project (1984-1990); playing keys and key bass for singer/songwriter Danny Morgan (1990-1991); Bad Habit, a local cover band (1991-2009); DV8, a local cover band (2009-Current); Dreamboat Annie; a Heart tribute band (2015-2025); and Genesis ReTouched, a Genesis tribute band he serves as keyboardist, Band Manager, and Musical Director (2024-Current). Jim has shared the stage with and played alongside notable artists such as Reb Beach of Winger and Whitesnake and Vinny Appice of Dio and Black Sabbath.. He has opened for numerous major touring acts, including the Doobie Brothers, Marillion, Jefferson Starship, Night Ranger, Styx, Ambrosia, and the Charlie Daniels Band. Jim also has extensive music industry experience as a producer and recording engineer.
One of Jim's favorite aspects of working at School of Rock Mason is the exposure he gets to new music, often introduced to him by his students. Jim is an avid golfer, and enjoys ice hockey and aircraft and aerospace activities.
Tim Garry
Owner
Tim Garry brought School of Rock to Mason in 2012. He is a parent of two sons, both of whom attended School of Rock between 2007 and 2011. He was so impressed with the program that he decided to return to the Cincinnati area where he grew up to establish the first School of Rock in the area. School of Rock Mason proudly serves Mason, West Chester, Maineville, Kings Mill, Mongomery, Deerfield, Liberty Township, Lebanon, Monroe, and other nearby communities, offering performance programs and lessons in guitar, bass, drums, keys/piano, and vocals to kids and adults.
While Tim is not a musician, he did a lot of theater in high school and college, where he learned how powerful performance programs are for those who participate in them. He brings the same passion to School of Rock Mason. He and all the staff of the school strive every day to create a community where all students can not only grow as musicians, but can also gain confidence and shine, connect with others, find a place to belong, and be happy.
Tim is a graduate of St Xavier High School, Harvard College, and Harvard Business School. Prior to making a major career change in opening the school, he worked in investment management, management consulting and strategic planning, government relations, and as a legislative aide to a Cincinnati congressman. He also worked three summers in the Live Shows Division of Kings Island as a character, including as Scooby Doo, Snorky the Elephant from the Banana Splits, and Yogi Bear.
James Harmon
Show Director
James Harmon has been a vital part of the School of Rock Mason team since 2013, currently serving as Show Director. He has also served previously as a guitar teacher and House Band Director. A dedicated musician and educator, James has over a decade of experience as a full-time general music teacher and band director.
James earned his Bachelor of Music Education in 2002 and his Master of Music in Education in 2011, both from Miami University. In addition to his mastery of the guitar, James is an accomplished low brass player, having played instruments like the trombone, tuba, and euphonium for 30 years. His performance career is equally varied, having played guitar in bands such as King's Landing (country rock), Sonic Rift (hard rock/heavy metal), and My Girl Friday (pop rock). He is also a former brass player for the renowned Cavaliers Drum & Bugle Corps.
When reflecting on his time at School of Rock Mason, James particularly cherishes the experience of directing some of the school’s most ambitious productions, citing the Queen shows (2016 & 2019), Metallica (2018), Def Leppard (2023), and KISS (2025) as some of his favorites. Outside of the school, James is an avid cyclist and lists Iron Maiden, Pink Floyd, and Metallica as some of his favorite bands.
Chuck Evans
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Chuck has been teaching guitar, bass guitar, and woodwinds since 1979. While he joined School of Rock Mason as a guitar and bass guitar teacher in 2025, he began playing guitar in 1966. He studied under William Steihl and was a founding member of his Southwest Ohio Symphonic Band (tenor sax) and Middletown High School Symphonic Band. He rehearsed and performed with the Miami University Symphony during his Junior and Senior years of high school under Dr. Selzer He attended the University of Cincinnati in ‘72 and ‘73,. He studied jazz saxophone with Jimmy McGary in Cincinnati and with Fred Lipsius (Blood, Sweat and Tears) in California, and he studied with Mr. Bill Eisele in advanced theory, composition, and improvisation.
During Chuck’s varied career as a performer he has toured with show bands, tribute bands, and rock bands, served as music director and conductor for numerous theater productions for Middletown Lyric Theatre and Hamilton Rotary, and played hundreds of solo acoustic guitar and vocal gigs, an activity he continues today. Chuck is an active studio session musician on guitar and woodwinds for many album projects. He has performed alongside notable jazz players and big bands in Cincinnati and Dayton, and jammed with members of the Allman Brothers Band in the 70s. As a member of the Crosstown Traffic Band (mid to late 70s), he opened shows for groups like the Ohio Players and Rare Earth, as well as other Motown and funk bands. Chuck has also arranged for other artists, helped with studio productions, and served as band leader and manager for many of the bands he has played with.
Chuck's musical tastes are broad, encompassing classical, jazz, and rock. He particularly leans toward R&B, and soul, funk, British rock (Beatles, British Invasion, Prog), jazz, Latin, and fusion. He appreciates the music of female songwriters such as Joni Mitchell, Laura Nyro, and Carol King. Other favorites include Smashing Pumpkins, Peter Gabriel, Beck, blues, pop, country, and metal..
