Shannon Canada
Owner
For more than three decades, the Canada family has lived at the intersection of music, mentorship, and community. As co-owners of School of Rock New Braunfels, Shannon and Cody Canada bring the credibility of a storied career in the Texas/Red Dirt scene and the heart of two parents who believe music can change a kid’s life.
Shannon Canada is an entrepreneur, community builder, and program leader. She is the engine that turns vision into reality. A veteran artist manager and event producer, she’s spent years steering tours, releases, and brand partnerships while building teams and creating opportunities for young musicians. At School of Rock New Braunfels, she oversees day-to-day operations, faculty development, and show programming, builds community partnerships, stages performance opportunities, and champions philanthropy through music, and coaches families and students on goal-setting, audition readiness, and the “unseen” skills of a working musician—professionalism, punctuality, and teamwork
Shannon’s superpower is culture. She fosters a welcoming, high-expectation environment where students feel safe to be bold, creative, and accountable.
Together, Shannon and Cody have transformed decades on the road into a purpose-driven school that feels like a second home. Their program combines rigorous instruction with real-world performance—weekly rehearsals, full-production shows at respected venues, and a mentorship pipeline that connects students with working professionals. The result is a school where beginners become confident bandmates, intermediate players become reliable performers, and advanced students learn the craft and character required for the next stage, whether that's college, touring, studio work, or their own original projects.
Rooted in New Braunfels and connected to a nationwide network of artists, the Canadas are building more than great musicians—they’re building great people.
Cody Canada
Owner
For more than three decades, the Canada family has lived at the intersection of music, mentorship, and community. As co-owners of School of Rock New Braunfels, Shannon and Cody Canada bring the credibility of a storied career in the Texas/Red Dirt scene and the heart of two parents who believe music can change a kid’s life.
Cody Canada is an artist, band leader, and mentor.
Best known as the frontman and principal songwriter for Cross Canadian Ragweed and later Cody Canada & The Departed, Cody has been a defining voice in the modern Texas/Red Dirt movement. His songs—beloved staples like “17,” “Alabama,” and “Boys from Oklahoma”—have become sing-along anthems across dance halls and festival fields. Over the last 30 years, he has led two nationally touring bands with multiple charting albums and fan-favorite live releases, headlined iconic venues (from Gruene Hall and Billy Bob’s to Cain’s Ballroom) and major festivals throughout the Southwest and beyond, collaborated and shared stages with cornerstone artists of the Americana/Red Dirt community, and earned a reputation as a fearless live performer and a generous mentor to younger players—often inviting emerging musicians on stage and into the songwriting process.
Today, while continuing to write, record, and tour, Cody channels that road-tested experience directly into the lesson rooms and rehearsal spaces at School of Rock, helping students translate theory into feel, and practice into performance.
Together, Shannon and Cody have transformed decades on the road into a purpose-driven school that feels like a second home. Their program combines rigorous instruction with real-world performance—weekly rehearsals, full-production shows at respected venues, and a mentorship pipeline that connects students with working professionals. The result is a school where beginners become confident bandmates, intermediate players become reliable performers, and advanced students learn the craft and character required for the next stage, whether that's college, touring, studio work, or their own original projects
Rooted in New Braunfels and connected to a nationwide network of artists, the Canadas are building more than great musicians—they’re building great people.
Allyson M
General Manager
Meet Allyson, the heartbeat behind the scenes at School of Rock New Braunfels! As General Manager, Allyson teaches essential Rock ‘n’ Roll life skills — like staying organized, getting kids excited, and supporting every student on their musical journey.
Originally from Boerne, TX, Allyson grew up surrounded by the energy of the music industry. Her dad worked his way from roadie to tour manager, and she proudly carries on his legacy of passion, dedication, and rock-solid work ethic. While she may not play a traditional instrument, Allyson masters the behind-the-scenes ones — communication, coordination, and keeping the show running smoothly.
Before joining School of Rock, Allyson spent years working with children and families. From growing up in a home daycare environment to nannying through college and serving as a Pre-K aide, she’s always had a heart for helping kids grow in confidence. Her time as a customer service representative for a major electric company also honed her skills in leadership, organization, and customer care — making her the perfect blend of professional and personable.
Music has always been a part of Allyson’s world — from nannying for local musicians to dancing with her twin toddlers at home. You might spot her at favorite local venues like Gruene Hall, Whitewater Amphitheater, or Floore’s Country Store. Her first concert — the Backstreet Boys with her grandparents and siblings — sparked a lifelong love for live music and unforgettable experiences.
At home, Allyson fronts her favorite band — her twin toddlers — where headbanging, dancing, and good vibes are always on the setlist. She joined School of Rock New Braunfels after seeing family friends Shannon and Cody Canada announce its opening. For Allyson, it was the perfect opportunity to combine her two greatest passions: supporting kids and celebrating music. Every day, she helps keep the rhythm of the school strong — ensuring that every Rocker feels encouraged, inspired, and ready to take the stage.
Adream K
Music Director
Originally from Pawnee, Indiana, Adream Kusters began playing music at the age of three. What started with the playful melodies of childhood shows quickly grew into a lifelong passion after seeing Led Zeppelin’s legendary The Song Remains the Same performance at Madison Square Garden. That moment ignited a deep love for music and the drive to pursue it seriously.
Adream brings a versatile skill set to School of Rock New Braunfels, teaching keys, vocals, strings, drums, and—most importantly—how to be a rockstar. Beyond teaching, Adream is an active musician with a personal project called Swing Ride, and continues to draw inspiration from dynamic live acts like The Lemon Twigs and Geese, two bands experienced up close before their rise to fame.
When asked what makes School of Rock special, Adream shared:
“Even with all the musical training I had growing up, nothing compares to the magic of School of Rock. My parents never found this program for me, but I wish they had—and I’m so glad I get to be part of it for our students. Plus, I get to tell people I’m Jack Black for a living!”
With a passion for mentoring young musicians and creating authentic performance experiences, Adream is dedicated to helping every student at School of Rock New Braunfels discover their voice, confidence, and inner rockstar.
Dierks C
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Vocal Teacher
Born and raised in New Braunfels, Dierks grew up surrounded by music—literally. Coming from a deeply musical family, picking up an instrument felt like second nature. He started playing around age seven or eight and quickly found his passion not just for guitar and bass guitar, but for the art of proper extreme vocals.
Dierks is a member of the rising metalcore band Waves In April, and despite his young age, he already has impressive stage experience. His band has opened for national acts like Thousand Below and Taken By Tides, and performed at major festivals alongside heavy hitters including Knocked Loose, Of Mice & Men, and Breaking Benjamin.
A huge fan of Charlie Simpson’s projects PREISDENT and Fightstar, Dierks draws inspiration from the blend of melody and power found in modern rock and metal.
School of Rock New Braunfels has always been home for him—literally and figuratively. After attending the program for seven years, Dierks joined the instructor team to give back to the community that shaped him. He loves the School of Rock approach to music education, the inclusive environment, and the way every genre is celebrated. With his mom as the owner of School of Rock New Braunfels, Dierks has grown up in this world and hopes to carry the torch one day as a future owner himself.
Elle G
Guitar Teacher, Vocal Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Rookies Teacher, Drum Teacher, Studio Coordinator
Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Elle has been surrounded by music for as long as she can remember. She began tinkering on a family piano at age three and discovered her true passion for performing by thirteen. Her natural curiosity and drive for musical growth led her through the School of Rock program herself, where she developed the skills and confidence that now inspire her own students.
Today, Elle is the powerhouse lead vocalist of the metalcore band Waves in April, based in New Braunfels, Texas. The band has played major festivals like Mile 0 Fest in Key West and Rocklahoma in Pryor, Oklahoma, and has shared the stage at legendary venues including Cain’s Ballroom and Gruene Hall. Before launching her own band, Elle also worked as a session artist in several recording studios, lending her voice and musicianship to a wide range of projects.
Elle teaches vocals, keyboard + piano, guitar, bass guitar, beginner/intermediate drums, and Rookies, bringing a mix of technical skill, creativity, and real-world experience to her lessons. Her love for School of Rock New Braunfels began in 2019 after attending a songwriting summer camp—she immediately connected with the people, the culture, and the energy, and she’s been part of the family ever since.
Her favorite band? Alice in Chains—a perfect reflection of her love for powerful vocals, raw emotion, and unforgettable melodies.
Chris C
Drum Teacher
Born and raised right here in New Braunfels, Chris began playing music at the age of seven, following in the footsteps of his parents, both talented musicians themselves. His lifelong passion for rhythm and performance led him to the stage as the drummer for Jason Boland and The Stragglers, where he continues to tour and record professionally.
Before joining School of Rock, Chris spent five years teaching in the Canyon School District, where he developed a love for mentoring young musicians and helping them grow in both skill and confidence.
Today, Chris brings that same enthusiasm to School of Rock New Braunfels, where he says he loves “working with some of the most talented teachers, musicians, and students in the state.” His musical inspirations include legends like ZZ Top, whose energy and style helped shape his own approach to drumming and performance.
Julie P
Vocal Teacher
Originally from Lake Charles, Louisiana, Julie P brings a lifetime of vocal experience and an infectious passion for music to her students at School of Rock New Braunfels. She teaches vocals, while also playing guitar and piano, skills she began developing at just ten years old. Encouraged by her parents to pursue her love of singing, Julie has built a remarkable career that spans stage, studio, and screen.
Julie’s diverse resume includes work in stage productions such as Sondheim, Weill, Gershwin – A Musical Revue, No Rhyme or Reason, Our Fathers, and Space Girl: A Rock Fantasy; film scores for Teenage Bonnie & Klepto Clyde, Death Wish V: Face of Death, and Dangerous Touch; and performances with rock bands including Daughter Judy, Gervasi, and Sparks Off The Wheel. She has also lent her voice as a backing vocalist for artists such as Sara Hickman, Victoria Williams, Katee Gadette, and Lisa Turner, and participated in numerous music ministry projects like The Third Day – A Rock Opera and Emmanuel.
One of Julie’s most memorable gigs was performing monthly at TreePeople’s Moonlight Hike in the Santa Monica Mountains—an experience she fondly recalls as magical. After moving to Texas, she continued to perform actively, singing with Gretchen’s Disco Plague (It’s Infectious), Tracy Weinberg & Friends, and Green’s Hallow, as well as appearing in the annual Tom Petty Tribute in New Braunfels.
Julie has been teaching voice since the early 1990s, offering private lessons to students of all ages. She has also taught at The Hill Country Sound Situation in Blanco, TX, led vocal workshops, and even worked with young children through Montessori Catequesis of the Good Shepherd.
Currently, Julie performs with her husband in the duo Phat Tuba and records original music at her home studio, Frogville Studio, where she shares videos on her YouTube channel. A lifelong music lover, she’s attended hundreds of concerts—from Elvis to Florence + The Machine—and counts Yes among her all-time favorite bands.
Julie joined School of Rock New Braunfels out of her passion for nurturing young musicians in a supportive, creative environment. “I’d wanted to teach at a School of Rock for a long time,” she says. “I love encouraging students to find their voice, their confidence, and their joy through music.”
Lee R
Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Drum Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Show Director
Originally from Scottsdale, Arizona, Lee began his musical journey at the age of eight after being inspired by his sister’s incredible singing talent. He started with violin and soon expanded into guitar, bass guitar, keyboard + piano, and drums, developing a deep appreciation for a wide range of musical styles.
With a foundation in classical music and formal training in Jazz and music theory, Lee has built an impressive career as both a performer and educator. He’s played stages across Texas and beyond, including The Blue Light in Lubbock, The Motherlode in Red River, and the East Texas State Fair. Earlier in his career, Lee performed with a Christian rock band founded by David Ellefson, former bassist of Megadeth.
Currently, Lee plays in and manages the Ian Tonroy Band, continuing to grow as both a musician and mentor. His favorite band is Dave Matthews Band, and one of his most memorable concert experiences was seeing Rise Against in Tempe, AZ, where he and a friend managed to make it all the way to the front row.
Lee was introduced to School of Rock New Braunfels by his longtime friend and fellow musician, Matt Polo. Since joining the team, he’s found teaching to be one of the most rewarding aspects of his musical journey. Watching students light up when they master a song or discover their passion for music reminds him every day why he fell in love with it in the first place.
Lucas T
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Born in Fort Stockton and raised in New Braunfels, Lucas has been steeped in music for as long as he can remember. Coming from a long line of musicians on his mother’s side, it was only natural that he picked up an instrument at age 12—and he’s been performing ever since.
By the age of 14, Lucas was already playing professionally, cutting his teeth on stages big and small across Texas. From busking on South Congress in Austin—where he famously received a $2 tip and words of encouragement from ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons—to performing on the main stage at Gruene Hall with his band Highway Hypnosis, Lucas has lived the full spectrum of the working musician’s journey.
A multi-instrumentalist, Lucas plays guitar, bass guitar, mandolin, harmonica, and sings. His musical influences shift between classic rock, southern rock, and country/folk—styles that shape both his playing and teaching.
Lucas was drawn to School of Rock New Braunfels as a way to keep music at the center of his life while supporting his passion for live performance. He loves being part of a program that helps students discover their own lifelong connection to music.
Livy G
Studio Coordinator, Rookies Teacher, Guitar Teacher
Originally from Canyon Lake, Livy began her musical journey at just eight years old, inspired by her great grandmother to pick up an instrument and explore the world of music. Over the years, she’s become a multi-instrumentalist, playing bass, guitar, and saxophone — each adding a unique flavor to her musical expression.
As a proud School of Rock New Braunfels alum, Livy has performed on some incredible stages, including Rock in Rio in Lisbon, Portugal, Summerfest, Gruene Hall, and Madrid, Spain — all through her time with the School of Rock program.
When she’s not helping young musicians find their groove in Rock 101 or keeping the studio running smoothly as Studio Coordinator, Livy can be found jamming to Shinyribs or Cross Canadian Ragweed (her favorites!).
Livy returned to School of Rock New Braunfels to continue her own musical growth and to give back to the community that helped shape her. She loves being part of an environment where kids can unplug, express themselves, and discover the joy of music in a fun, hands-on way.
Gavin H
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Born and raised right here in New Braunfels, Gavin picked up the guitar at just ten years old after being inspired by his dad, who also plays guitar and challenged him to become a better player than him. That encouragement sparked a lifelong love of music that continues to grow every day.
In addition to guitar, Gavin also plays bass and has developed a deep appreciation for musicianship and performance through his years at School of Rock. As a former House Band member himself, Gavin knows firsthand how powerful the program can be for building skill and confidence.
Gavin’s favorite band is Revocation, and he channels that passion for heavy, technical music into his teaching. He loves being part of the School of Rock New Braunfels family and takes pride in helping students experience the same growth and excitement he once felt as a young musician discovering his own sound.
Victoria S
Vocal Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Born and raised right here in New Braunfels, Victoria has been surrounded by music for as long as she can remember. She’s been singing since she could talk, started keyboard + piano lessons at age nine, and soon after began teaching herself bass guitar at 14. A true multi-instrumentalist, she also enjoys experimenting with accordion, trumpet, and guitar.
Victoria’s love of music was sparked by her childhood Nintendo adventures — the lush, classical soundtracks from games like The Legend of Zelda inspired her to bring those melodies to life on piano. After nearly nine years as a dedicated student at School of Rock San Antonio, she’s now come full circle as a teacher while pursuing her dream of becoming a Music Therapist.
She’s performed at iconic San Antonio venues like The Aztec Theatre and Paper Tiger, and even met Frank Zummo of Sum 41 along the way. When she’s not teaching, you can catch her playing bass with her band Mouth Junkies or catching a live show — her favorites include Origami Angel and Joyce Manor.
For Victoria, School of Rock New Braunfels is more than a music school — it’s a home. She loves the energy, creativity, and constant support that fills every rehearsal room and stage, and she’s passionate about helping students find that same spark through music.
Bailey G
Drum Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Originally from Seguin, Texas, Bailey teaches drums at School of Rock New Braunfels and also plays bass guitar. Bailey first picked up music at age 12, inspired by playing Rock Band and going to live shows at a young age — experiences that sparked a lifelong passion for performing.
A former School of Rock New Braunfels House Band member, Bailey spent two years touring and performing across the country with the group, gaining invaluable stage experience and confidence. Before joining the instructor team, Bailey also taught at a locally owned music school for over a year, where her love for mentoring young musicians really took root.
Bailey’s favorite bands include Fall Out Boy, Twenty One Pilots, and My Chemical Romance — all major influences on her style and energy behind the kit. Bailey discovered School of Rock through social media and instantly connected with its community and mission. The program shaped who she is both as a musician and as a person, and now Bailey’s goal is to help the next generation of students experience that same growth, fun, and creativity. When not teaching, Bailey plays in a post-hardcore band, continuing to bring passion and drive to every performance.
Matt P
Drum Teacher
Born and raised right here in New Braunfels, Matt picked up his first pair of drumsticks at just seven years old. Growing up in a musical household with parents who were both musicians, rhythm was part of daily life—and the drums quickly became his passion.
With over 20 years of drumming experience, Matt brings deep musical knowledge, professional touring insight, and contagious enthusiasm to every lesson. In addition to teaching, he travels the country as a drum tech for national acts, setting up kits on major stages and learning firsthand from the pros.
Matt’s performance résumé is stacked with standout moments. He’s opened for punk legends Black Flag with his band Nuclear Nation, played the iconic Carnegie Hall in New York City, and worked alongside world-renowned drummers including Danny Seraphine (Chicago), John “JR” Robinson (Michael Jackson), Randy Ragsdale (Cross Canadian Ragweed), Gregg Bissonette (Ringo Starr Band), Jeremy Walda (William Beckmann), and Zoro (Lenny Kravitz)
When he’s not teaching or teching on the road, Matt performs with his band The Instructors. His favorite band of all time is KISS—proof that he’s all about big sound, big energy, and big rock moments.
Matt first discovered School of Rock New Braunfels after seeing our students perform at a local event. Their talent, passion, and stage presence sealed the deal: he knew he had to be part of the program. Now he’s thrilled to help the next generation of drummers build their skills, confidence, and love for music.
Kyle G
Drum Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Guitar Teacher
Born and raised in New Braunfels, Texas, Kyle’s musical journey began early. He started playing drums at just six years old, later expanding his musicianship to guitar and bass by the time he was fourteen. Music was always a central force in Kyle’s life—his father played guitar around the house and even took him to his very first concert, The Melvins, at age seven. That experience lit the spark that would grow into a lifelong passion.
Over the past few years, Kyle has been the drummer for the San Antonio–based group Twin Camrys, where he not only performs but also records, mixes, and masters music from his home studio. Their EP Gardens of Truth was fully produced in-house, and the band has taken their sound to venues like The Rock Box, 502 Bar, and Burleson, as well as an unforgettable performance at SXSW in Austin.
Kyle has also crossed paths with some of his musical heroes, gaining inspiration and guidance from members of The Melvins, Mudhoney, Adam Jones (Tool), Chris Adler (Lamb of God), and Todd Sucherman (Styx). One of his all-time favorite live music experiences was seeing Billy Strings, whose high-energy, new-age bluegrass continues to inspire him creatively.
In addition to gigging, Kyle is currently developing a collaborative solo project from his home studio—a genre-blending album that showcases his multi-instrumental abilities and features contributions from his closest friends.
Kyle joined School of Rock New Braunfels because teaching music felt like the natural next step in his journey. Sharing his passion with the next generation brings him genuine joy. He believes this school provides more than lessons—it gives students a safe space to discover who they are, build confidence, and learn life skills that stretch far beyond the stage. Helping young musicians learn to rock and find their identity is what fuels his commitment every day.